This robot vacuum didn’t want to be returned – and it let me know

I’ve reviewed hundreds of gadgets, but this is the first time one has tried to make a break for it.

After reviewing the Samsung Jet Bot Combo AI robot vacuum last week, I packed it all up yesterday to be returned to Samsung for the next lucky reviewer.

I removed it from SmartThings, boxed it up and left it by the front door for collection this morning.

About an hour later, this happened:

Even boxed up and wrapped in plastic, the Jet Bot was desperate to return to the dock.

I couldn't capture it on video, but it also started talking, saying things like, "I'm having trouble moving".

Surprised by the vacuum's attempt at escape, I opened up the box thinking I'd just missed turning it off.

But the robot vacuum itself didn't have a power switch. There are two touch control buttons and a reset button hidden under the cover, but no power switch. I read and re-read the manual to check that, by the way.

But I also realised I should have done a factory reset, so I did that, and wrapped it back up, figuring that would be the end of it.

30 minutes later, it started trying to move again, so I moved it to the garage before it was collected this morning.

(When the courier collected it, I almost warned him that the box might start talking to him as he drove around, but decided it would be more fun if he discovered that for himself.)

Anyway, I don't really have a point in sharing this, but I do think all appliances should have a physical power switch so you can turn them off.

Samsung Jet Bot Combo AI review: Solid clean, buggy software

When it works, the Jet Bot Combo AI’s suction and design are great. But there are a lot of quirks that left me disappointed with this vacuum.

BTTR ReviewsNick Broughall