DJI has unveiled the Romo 2 robovac series, a second generation of its household robot vacuum that arrives with improved climbing ability, quieter operation, and a new privacy-focused local data mode. The privacy feature matters because the original Romo suffered serious security flaws that let attackers remotely access thousands of units worldwide, exposing home floorplans, cameras and microphones, and even granting full control over the devices; DJI is clearly hoping the update repairs its damaged reputation.

The range comprises two models, the transparent P2 and opaque A2, both with upgraded navigation capable of detecting obstacles as small as 2mm and even transparent surfaces like glass. Legs allow it to climb steps up to 4cm high, suction reaches 36,000Pa on carpet, and noise has reportedly been cut by 85 percent. The new Local Data Mode disconnects the app from the internet, lets users disable the camera and microphone, and allows stored data to be deleted; it launches with the Romo 2 in the fourth quarter of this year and will later extend to the original Romo. DJI has not announced pricing or a release date, and a US launch is considered unlikely given existing restrictions on DJI products and a new FCC ban on foreign-made robot vacuums.