[JohnFen]

My Roombas seem to last about 5 years (then they get transformed into experimental robot platforms).

But since it's getting harder to find ones that don't connect to the network, I think I may just start actually repairing the one that's currently used as a vacuum when it breaks, so I can continue to have a good robotic vacuum.

[Ruthalas]

So look into Valetudo if you want local control of your vacuums.

It's a open source application that (after rooting the vacuum) replaces the cloud with a self hosted control webUI.

I am a big fan.

[JohnFen]

Thanks for the pointer. I'll look into this.

[worik]

Verring off topic...

Can I run a Roomba whilst preventing it calling home?

Is there a setting for that or would I have to configure firewall rules?

[malfist]

Not completely. If it's one that does mapping, that's all stored on the cloud.

You can prevent some of the telemetry with a pi hole, but be aware that every run will end with a notification of "communication error" when the Roomba tries to report on you

[worik]

Is there a maker of privacy respecting robot vacuum cleaners that you know of?

[_dain_]

Not a maker exactly, but there is an open source hobbyist software project for certain brands of robot vacuum: https://valetudo.cloud

It lets you run them without any cloud connectivity or forced updates.

[inhumantsar]

iRobot still sells all the parts for their old, non-cloud vacuums if you don't mind buying used and doing DIY parts swaps. They're very repair friendly: No special tools required and easy to take apart.

[exitb]

I run a ~5 year old Roomba, that I just never connected to anything. I control it via the physical buttons and it works just fine. Is that not an option anymore on newer models?

[batch12]

My oldest is approaching more than 11 years I believe, though I've replaced its brushes and rollers and batteries at least once.

[winrid]

Bobsweep still sells some that don't connect to a network. They also have an online store with spare parts.