Consequences of iRobot Insolvency for Roomba Users


iRobot, the producer of the Roomba robotic vacuum, has encountered tough times lately. Following a botched acquisition by Amazon last year, the company has had difficulty securing a buyer due to financial troubles and mounting debt. Last week, iRobot revealed its bankruptcy filing and announced that its main contract manufacturer, the China-based robotics firm Picea, would take over as part of the Chapter 11 proceedings.

For consumers, this announcement might spark unease. Roombas are a top brand in the U.S. robotic vacuum sector, commanding a 42 percent market share. The timing of the bankruptcy aligns with numerous Roomba purchases made during Black Friday promotions.

Nevertheless, iRobot reassures consumers that there is no cause for alarm. iRobot CEO Gary Cohen informed TechRadar that operations will proceed as normal. “The app is functioning, the warranties will be honored,” Cohen stated. He stressed that there will be no immediate interruptions and that Roombas will remain operational despite the company’s financial challenges.

Cohen also indicated that iRobot and Picea are working together on new products for the coming year, and the transition has been seamless as the two companies were already collaborators. Roomba owners can feel confident that their devices will keep working and receiving updates, at least for the time being.