When was the first ECOVACS robot vacuum cleaner invented: A Brief History of DEEBOT

2023-04-01
In todays fast-paced world, people are always looking for ways to make their lives easier and more convenient. Three of the most time-consuming household chores are dishwashing, laundry, and vacuuming. Just like washing machines, robotic vacuum cleaners are also the greatest invvention that make vacuuming a breeze. ECOVACS is a leading brand in the robotic vacuum industry, and the DEEBOT series has been a game-changer for homeowners. In this blog post, we will take a brief look at the history of the DEEBOT and when the first ECOVACS robot vacuum cleaner was invented.
 

Why did ECOVACS start making robots?


Back to the 1990s, Suzhou, where a number of OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) specializing in floor cleaning hardware are headquartered, providing services for global brands such as Panasonic, Philips, Hoover and more. One of the larger OEM is TEK Electrical, which has been making vacuum cleaner and other products since 1998. They wanted to do more than just make products for foreign companies, and wanted to be its own brand.

For ECOVACS, which started as an OEM factory, the turning point for its robotics business occurred in 2000. That year, the 42-year-old chairman Qian Dongqi noticed a news story about a robot soccer game while reading a newspaper. Inspired by this, the entrepreneur, who graduated from the Physics Department of Nanjing University, wondered whether robots could help people clean floors. Thus, in addition to its main OEM business, the founder Qian Dongqi established a small-scale team within the company to specifically develop a new product, the so-called robotic vacuum cleaner.

The first prototype of robotic vacuum cleaner by ECOVACS
The first prototype of robotic vacuum cleaner by ECOVACS
 

When did the first DEEBOT robotic vacuum come out?


The first ECOVACS robotic vacuum cleaner was invented in 2006, named the DEEBOT. It was a significant breakthrough in household cleaning technology, utilizing intelligent sensors and programming to navigate and clean floors autonomously. ECOVACS revolutionized the way people clean their homes. The DEEBOT had a powerful motor that could clean floors with ease and quickly became a popular choice among consumers.

Since then, ECOVACS has continued to innovate and expand its product line, introducing new and improved models with advanced features and technology.

The early-version hand grip of ECOVACS robotic vacuum cleaner
The early-version hand grip of ECOVACS robotic vacuum cleaner

In 2015, ECOVACS introduced the DEEBOT M8 series, the first robotic vacuum cleaner with simultaneous floor-mopping and vacuuming capabilities, allowing for a more comprehensive and efficient cleaning experience.

Deepoo 730 the first robotic vacuum cleaner from ECOVACS
Deepoo 730, the first robotic vacuum cleaner from ECOVACS

In 2018, ECOVACS launched the DEEBOT OZMO 930, the first robotic vacuum cleaner with a built-in camera for visual mapping and navigation. This feature allows for more accurate and precise cleaning, as well as personalized cleaning plans and schedules for different rooms.
 

When Was ECOVACS DEEBOT OZMO T8 Launched?


The DEEBOT T8 AIVI was launched and has since become one of ECOVACS' most popular models. It is the first DEEBOT that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and visual interpretation (VI) technology to navigate and clean homes. The front-facing, starlight camera which allows you to log in and see what’s happening in your home, and with built-in speakers you can even talk to your pet through ECOVACS App remotely.

In April 2021, ECOVACS introduced the DEEBOT N8, featuring the OZMO mopping system, which means DEEBOT N8 is a robot cleaner that can vacuum and mop at the same time. This innovative technology allows you to set four moisture levels for different needs and floor types, such as laminate, wooden floors or tiles – conveniently via the app. Later in June 2021 introduced the DEEBOT N8+. The DEEBOT N8+ is an upgraded version of the DEEBOT N8, with features including a charging dock that automatically empties the dustbin, making it even more convenient to use. This means that you do not have to empty the dustbin after every cleaning task. The DEEBOT N8+ is now available for purchase in several countries and can be found on the ECOVACS website and through various online retailers.
 

When Did the Ecovac T9+ Release?


In 2021, ECOVACS released the DEEBOT T9+ with upgraded 3D detection and obstacle avoidance technology, which strategically avoid obstacles such as cables, shoes, and small objects. And the upgraded OZMO Pro 2.0 system provides simultaneously sweeps, vacuums and mops your floor to effectively remove stubborn stains off. And it's quieter than ever, providing a more efficient cleaning experience. With an industry-first built-in Air Freshener, DEEBOT T9 can infuse your home with a delicate, luxurious fragrance so you can enjoy the best at-home experience. Air Freshener is designed to spread fragrance and effectively remove musty smells and pet odor. Independent capsule design with three kinds of fragrance choice that keeps for 60 days.

DEEBOT T9 TrueDetect3D20
 

When Did the Advanced DEEBOT T10 and X1 Family Release?


DEEBOT T10 Family and X1 Family are both featuring humanized YIKO Voice Assistant that offers a unique immersive experience.

DEEBOT-YIKO Voice Assistant

There are different technoloies on the Obstacle Avoidance Technology and design, T10 Family use AIVI 3.0 to offer improved speed and accuracy of object recognition. While DEEBOT X1 Fmaily featuring AIVI 3D cleaning system that use AI computing power and an astrophotography-grade RGB camera with autopilot technology to enhance obstacle avoidance, and human recognition capabilities.

DEEBOT-JACOB JENSEN DESIGN
 

Why ECOVACS is a good brand in robot vacuum cleaners?

Consumers are willing to purchase robotic vacuum cleaners, provided that the product's technology and functions are sufficiently attractive. Manufacture of robotic vacuum cleaners requires certain technological thresholds, including chips, sensors, and AI algorithms, which create relatively high barriers to entry and prevent just any household appliance company from entering the market. Further improvement in technology and functions requires a significant amount of R&D investment. Let's take a look at how ECOVACS stands out from the competition.

Strong technical research and development: With years of experience and technical accumulation in the field of robot vacuum cleaners, ECOVACS has achieved numerous breakthroughs in intelligent sensing, autonomous obstacle avoidance, and intelligent recognition, constantly improving product performance and user experience.

Innovation capability: ECOVACS places great emphasis on innovation and R&D investment. The company allocates over 20% of its revenue to R&D, continuously bringing new technologies and products to the market, leading the development of robot vacuum cleaner technology. Holding over 1200 patents in China and overseas, ECOVACS also collaborates with renowned universities and research institutions to conduct joint research on technology and explore applications. The company has a state-of-the-art testing lab to ensure product quality, and Ecovacs runs a student sponsorship program with various universities in China to nurture young tech minds.

User experience: ECOVACS places great emphasis on user needs and experience, continuously launching new products that meet customers’ demand. Not only to the technologies applied to the product's, Ecovacs also focuses on the convenience, quality of and durability of its products, ensuring that customers have a seamless user experience.

Excellent after-sales service: ECOVACS provides 7x24 hours support and service to customers, including a professional customer service team, and worldwide warranty and repair services. Customers can purchase and use ECOVACS' robot vacuum cleaners with peace of mind and assurance.

Conclusion


ECOVACS Robotics has a rich history of innovation and technology development in the field of robotic vacuum cleaners. Today, ECOVACS is committed to expanding our intellectual property portfolio, to guarantee quality for our customers around the world.