In a sweeping makeover of its robotic vacuum product line, iRobot introduced eight new models, marking a new chapter for the company. Having weathered a contentious 2024, during which it lost founder and CEO Colin Angle and Amazon’s hoped-for acquisition, iRobot is taking center stage with a bold makeover of its Roomba line.
The new models, priced between $299 and $999, boast a wealth of innovations, such as the long-awaited addition of lidar navigation and room mapping. This is a departure from iRobot’s traditional camera-based vSLAM navigation system, which had been used in Roombas for years. With lidar technology, the Roombas will map rooms faster and more accurately, which should translate to better cleaning efficiency.
The new series includes a series of models to address varying price points and specifications. The entry-level model 105 series includes vacuums and vacuum mops with an optional auto-empty dock. The 205 series includes an onboard dust compactor, a first for the series, while the 405 and 505 higher-end models include two spinning mopping pads, iRobot’s first. All new models will come in black and white color and will be pre-orderable on March 18th at iRobot.com in the US and some European countries.
This is iRobot’s biggest product launch to date, kicking off the company’s return to innovation and competitiveness. One of the most significant shifts is the incorporation of lidar navigation, once a standard feature among competitors. According to iRobot’s product management lead, Warren Fernandez, this new technology will allow for faster mapping, enhanced cleaning effectiveness, and adding a real-time cleaning view feature in the new iRobot app.
Although the new Roombas contain 7,000Pa suction and have four stages of suction, less than some competitors like Roborock’s 22,000Pa model, iRobot points out that suction power is only one factor in cleaning quality. The new shape and lidar tech should enhance the overall user experience.
With its new product line, iRobot is set to reclaim dominance in the competitive robot vacuum market through innovative features to stay ahead of growing competition from overseas brands.
