Neato Robotics have introduced their XV11 robot vacuum cleaner, a device that can potentially be a serious contender to the Roomba. The XV11 is the first automated vacuum to utilize SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping) and laser technology to accurately lay out a room and the location of “obstacles” prior to beginning the cleaning process.

Unlike Roomba which moves around in circular patterns to clean a room, XV11 uses a more systematic approach of going back and forth across the floor until the room is cleaned. In the event that the robotic device runs out of battery power prior to finishing a room, it will head back to its charging station to recharge, after which it will finish the task at hand.

Being laser guided, XV11 no longer relies on virtual walls like Roomba to identify doorways. The unit will remain in the room it was tasked to clean unless it has been programmed to clean multiple rooms. In addition, edge detection technology ensures XV11 doesn’t fall down the nearest flight of stairs.

The Neato robotic vacuum cleaner is said to be loud due to its powerful motor, which I guess doesn’t bode well for the conceptual silent vacuum with the iPod dock.

XV11 will retail early next year at a price of $399.

Via: Geeky Gadgets, Gadget Venue