Dyson’s New Augmented Reality Feature Maps Where You’ve Vacuumed

On April 8, Dyson announced a new feature called CleanTrace that uses augmented reality sensors in smartphones to visually highlight areas that have been vacuumed, ensuring no spot is missed. This tool effectively paints over cleaned sections on device screens in real-time, indicating which areas have been vacuumed.

Due for launch this June, CleanTrace uses a lidar scanner on iPhone 12 Pro, Pro Max, and newer models to highlight the vacuumed area. The phones must be attached to the vacuum using a separately sold clamp, compatible only with Dyson’s $1,000 Gen5detect model. The cost of the clamp has not yet been determined. Dyson will integrate this feature into its mobile app as a free update in June.

Dyson’s research shows that about 80% of cleaning sessions last under 10 minutes, though people report vacuuming for an average of 24 minutes. The data also highlights inefficient cleaning habits, with repeated coverage of the same areas and other spots entirely missed.

According to Dyson, this feature aims to make deep cleaning quicker and more precise.

The company explains that the feature was inspired by the mapping technology of its robot vacuums. Dyson’s VP of Engineering, Charlie Park, points out that, unlike most people, Dyson robots have a systematic cleaning approach. They are aware of their location in a room, where they’ve already cleaned and where they still need to clean.

TechCrunch has a different take on this, describing it as somewhat silly and unnecessary. However, the platform acknowledges the entertainment value, suggesting that the quirkiness is part of its appeal. It might not persuade those hesitant about a $700+ vacuum, but TechCrunch remarks that it’s not the most extreme product Dyson has released, referencing the Dyson Zone air purifier you attach to your face.

According to The Verge, the Gen5detect vacuum already includes features like a green headlight highlighting dust and debris. The CleanTrace attachment adds another layer of verification, giving users extra assurance that they’ve cleaned thoroughly. The Verge also raises the valid question of why this feature wouldn’t work with other Dyson models or even vacuums from different brands.

The system displays Dyson’s signature purple in demonstrations, marking the vacuum’s path. While there’s no one opinion on whether this feature is unnecessary, this means there’ll be no more floorboard counting to ensure thorough cleaning.