🧹 Today I learned that I can (theoretically) root my robot vacuum and install a community-built control plane on it for command and control without the cloud. And then I can use Tailscale for secure remote access.
So, um, I think I have a weekend project lined up! 🤞
- https://valetudo.cloud/
- https://builder.dontvacuum.me/
- https://tailscale.dev/blog/tailscale-sucks
"Rooting requires full disassembly."
Don't threaten me with a good time. 😈
I was all set to get started on my robot hack... but I should probably make sure the battery is fully charged first.
I hate waiting.
I am root.
(Got root SSH access, working on installing the hacked firmware and then loading Valetudo now.)
Robot: Valetudo'd ✅
Now for the *really* hard part - putting the thing back together! 🤞
It does! And it even preserved my existing map and other settings.
My robot is now disconnected from the cloud, and running a local web server to provide management and control of the robot.
And, me being me, of course I loaded Tailscale on the robot so I can easily access it remotely.
Now I just need to get this hooked in to Home Assistant...