Dreame unveils world's first steam-cleaning robot vacuum at IFA 2026

But based on a demo, TechRadar said the steam seemed gentle, and it doubted whether there would be enough volume to make a real impact. The publication also noted that the internal heating system reduces battery life significantly: Dreame's Dawn Chen told TechRadar that with steam enabled, the robot runs for around 30 to 40 minutes versus about four hours without it. Steam must be turned on manually through the app and can only be used for zones smaller than 10 square meters. Chen described the feature as spot-cleaning only.

Chen said the R&D process faced two major challenges: limescale buildup from boiling water, which they addressed with a limescale remover inside the pipeline, and the heat generated inside the robot's body affecting sensitive electronics. To solve the second issue, engineers added internal insulation and redesigned the robot's interior.

TechRadar suggests iRobot's competing Roomba Max 875 may take a safer route by emitting warm mist instead of steam and heating water inside the dock, thereby preserving battery life. Which method cleans better remains to be seen.

The Aqua20 Pro also gains improved obstacle climbing: the Proleap system can now clear single steps up to 2 inches (5 cm) and double-step thresholds of up to 3.9 inches (10 cm), though it sometimes needed multiple run-ups in the demo. Its side roller extends up to 8 cm farther to reach edges, and both the main roller and side sweeper can lift to avoid carpet contact when mopping. The mopping roller can lift 15 mm when on carpet.

Dreame plans to launch the robot on September 21 in Germany, Austria, Spain, Portugal, and Switzerland, followed by other European markets. A UK date has not been announced, but Chen said it will arrive before the end of the year.