FB Radar January
FieldBots Radar – January Update
The start of the year brought a variety of developments in the field of automation and cleaning technologies. While some companies introduced entirely new robotic concepts, others explored ways to automate cleaning without using robots at all. Here is a summary of the most relevant updates from January.
Roborock’s Saros Rover Walks (and Cleans) Stairs
At CES 2026, Roborock presented the Saros Rover, a prototype vacuum robot with a two-wheel-leg mechanism that enables it to climb and clean stairs on its own. The robot can handle straight, curved, and carpeted steps thanks to its articulated legs, which lift and pivot independently. The product is still in development, with no confirmed release date.
Keenon Introduces Autonomous Mower
Keenon Robotics has entered the outdoor robotics market with the Keenon Mower, presented at CES 2026. The robot is intended for autonomous lawn care and is aimed at commercial and institutional use cases. The mower is part of Keenon’s broader expansion beyond indoor service robotics.
Autonomous Cleaning without Robots I: Self-Cleaning Glass
Researchers have developed a type of glass that removes dust using alternating electric fields instead of water or cleaning agents. The system is designed to function in dry environments where traditional self-cleaning coatings are ineffective. Potential applications include solar panels and building facades.
Autonomous Cleaning without Robots II: Self-Cleaning Table
Nanyang Technological University is testing a self-cleaning table at its campus food court. The table uses a roll of disposable surface film that advances with the push of a button, replacing dirty sections with clean ones. The goal is to reduce reliance on human cleaning staff.
iRobot’s Discontinued Robots: A Retrospective
An article from The Robot Report reviews a series of iRobot products that were discontinued over the years. These include consumer cleaning devices, concept models, and military applications. The overview provides insight into how robotics companies manage innovation, market fit, and product lifecycles.