iRobot

The FCC has banned imports of foreign-made mobile robots, effectively blocking new robot vacuum models from major overseas manufacturers and leaving only US-assembled options like Matic, which still relies on many foreign parts. The rule targets manufacturing location rather than product security, likely reducing competition, slowing product innovation, and pushing prices higher while existing devices remain largely unaffected. Industry players warn the measure may spur domestic manufacturing long-term but will not immediately improve device cybersecurity without specific security standards. » More on theverge.com

iRobot introduced the Roomba Electro Plus, its first manually operated cordless hard-floor cleaner that vacuums, mops, sanitizes and self-cleans using electrolyzed tap water as a disinfectant. The company also unveiled five updated Roomba robot vacuum models with higher suction, smaller footprints and lower prices, including top and midrange combos with hot-water mop washing and improved lidar and AI features. New models are available for preorder in the US, replacing parts of the 2025 lineup and aiming to offer more compact, cost-competitive options. » More on theverge.com

iRobot introduced eight new Roomba models mid-2026, priced from £229 to £799, featuring up to 25% smaller chassis, higher suction (up to 30,000Pa), improved lidar navigation and more models with roller mops. The flagship 775 Combo adds a pressurized “hot spot mopping” spray and an AutoWash dock; lower-tier models bring mopping and AI obstacle detection to cheaper price points. The rollout follows iRobot's reboot under Shenzhen Picea Robotics and will launch in phases across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. » More on theverge.com