Roborock has drawn attention at CES 2026 by demonstrating a robot vacuum concept that addresses one of the most persistent challenges in home robotics, the ability to climb stairs without external assistance. The device, called the Saros Rover, is being presented as a working demonstration rather than a commercial launch, but its presence highlights a shift in how robot vacuum mobility may be approached in the coming years. Stair navigation has long been a limitation for autonomous cleaning devices, often requiring users to manually carry robots between floors or rely on add on systems that increase complexity.
Over the past year, several manufacturers have experimented with ways to solve this problem. At IFA last summer, Eufy introduced MarsWalker, an external stair assistant designed to lift compatible robot vacuums up steps. Dreame followed a similar path with its CyberX concept, while Mova presented the Zeus 60, a compact elevator style platform intended to transport robots between levels. While these approaches demonstrated creative engineering, they all relied on an external structure that the robot must dock into, functioning more like a powered exoskeleton or lift rather than a fully autonomous solution. In contrast, Roborock’s Saros Rover removes the need for any additional hardware by integrating stair climbing directly into the robot itself.
The Saros Rover features a design that is unlike traditional circular or low profile robot vacuums. Its squared body is supported by two articulated legs, each ending in a wheel, forming what Roborock describes as a two wheel leg architecture. This configuration allows each leg to lift and lower independently, enabling the robot to climb steps, adjust its height, and maintain stability across uneven surfaces. During demonstrations, the Rover was shown stopping abruptly, turning sharply, and even performing small jumps while keeping its main body level. This level of control suggests a significant focus on balance and motion control, areas that are critical for safe operation on stairs and raised surfaces.
Roborock previously shared lab footage with journalists in December, showing the Saros Rover maintaining balance while being struck by moving objects such as tennis balls. This demonstration highlighted the robot’s ability to adapt to sudden impacts without tipping over, reinforcing claims of improved agility and stability. While Roborock has carefully framed its messaging, using precise language to describe the Rover as the world’s first robot vacuum with this specific architectural approach, the design does stand apart from existing consumer cleaning robots. The company has not confirmed when or if the Saros Rover will reach the market, nor has it shared pricing or final specifications. However, its appearance at CES 2026 suggests Roborock is actively exploring new form factors that go beyond incremental improvements in suction power or navigation software. As robot vacuums continue to evolve into more capable household devices, concepts like the Saros Rover indicate how mobility and physical adaptability may become just as important as cleaning performance in future designs.
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