DJI Unveils Romo 2 Robovacs with Local Data Mode for Enhanced Privacy
The second-generation vacuum series features 36,000 Pa suction and specialized legs for climbing thresholds up to 8.5 cm.
DJI has unveiled the Romo 2 series of robotic vacuum cleaners at IFA 2026, introducing significant hardware upgrades and a new privacy-centric data architecture. The launch marks a strategic attempt by the drone giant to refine its home robotics offering through improved performance and tighter data controls.
The new lineup, which includes the P2 and A2 models, introduces a specialized "legs" system that allows the units to step over thresholds up to 8.5 cm, a substantial leap in obstacle climbing capabilities. On the performance front, DJI has increased suction power to 36,000 Pa while simultaneously reducing operational noise to make the units quieter than the first-generation models, according to reports from The Verge and other industry outlets.
A Pivot Toward Privacy
While the hardware gains are notable, the most critical addition is the "Local Data Mode." This feature is designed to prevent the transmission of photos or videos to external servers, ensuring that sensitive visual data remains on the device. This pivot comes as DJI seeks to reassure consumers following privacy concerns surrounding the original Romo. By shifting toward local processing, DJI is responding to a broader industry trend where users are increasingly wary of smart home devices that map the interior of their private residences.
Industry Implications
This move reflects a growing consumer demand for "privacy by design" in the smart home sector. For DJI, the Romo 2 is more than a product refresh; it is an effort to rebuild trust. As devices equipped with cameras and advanced sensors become standard in home maintenance, the ability to guarantee that data does not leave the local network is becoming a competitive necessity rather than a luxury feature.
What to Watch
Industry analysts will be watching to see if the Local Data Mode is sufficient to overcome the lingering skepticism from the first generation's rollout. While the technical specifications of the P2 and A2 are competitive, the long-term success of the series will likely depend on whether DJI can prove its commitment to data security through third-party audits or further transparency regarding its cloud infrastructure.