iRobot Launches First Non-Robot Floor Cleaner

iRobot announced its first non-robotic floor cleaner, the Roomba Electro Plus, on October 10, 2023. This new device is priced at $399 and functions as a 5-in-1 hard-floor cleaner, integrating vacuuming, mopping, and disinfecting capabilities. Unlike its robotic predecessors, the Roomba Electro Plus requires manual operation by the user.

The company also revealed updates to its established line of Roomba robot vacuums. Five new models were introduced, featuring enhancements such as increased suction power, more compact designs, and improved navigation systems. These updates aim to maintain iRobot's position in the automated home cleaning market while expanding its product offerings into manually operated solutions.

The introduction of the Roomba Electro Plus signifies a strategic diversification for iRobot, moving beyond purely autonomous devices. This move potentially addresses a broader segment of the consumer market seeking effective floor cleaning solutions that may not require the full automation and associated cost of a robot vacuum. The company did not specify a release date for the new products but indicated they would be available soon.