iRobot Files for Bankruptcy, Leaves Roomba Customers Concerned

iRobot, known for its Roomba vacuum cleaners, has filed for bankruptcy, prompting worries among customers about the future functionality of their pricey devices.

Once a major player in the market, the 35-year-old company will be taken over by Shenzhen Picea Robotics, a Chinese supplier, and will transition to a private entity following a recent bankruptcy filing in Delaware.

The firm, which originated from MIT research, has seen challenges since a $1.7 billion acquisition deal with Amazon fell through in 2024. Prices for its robot vacuums can reach up to $1,300.

Despite the filing, iRobot assured customers that it would maintain the app used to control the vacuums, claiming there would be no expected disruptions in service.

CEO Gary Cohen commented that the merger “strengthens our financial position and provides continuity for our consumers, customers and partners.”

However, reactions on social media revealed underlying concerns. One Reddit user pondered the future of the device’s features, while another speculated that if the online service were to close, many vacuums might end up in landfills.

iRobot’s website states that around 40 million Roombas have been sold globally. These devices are designed to navigate around furniture and walls, and some advanced models even allow for scheduled cleanings, voice commands, and self-emptying capabilities.

Earlier this year, iRobot indicated that bankruptcy was on the horizon. The planned acquisition by Amazon, which started in 2022, was ultimately canceled due to regulatory issues in the U.S. and Europe.

The company has since downsized its workforce by 30%, laying off 350 employees. As part of the failed acquisition, Amazon paid a $94 million dissolution fee to iRobot.