iRobot is bringing the Roomba Mini to the U.Ok. and Europe

The new Roomba Mini is half the size of iRobot’s Roomba 105 robot vacuum. | Source: iRobot

iRobot Corp. today said it is bringing its Roomba Mini, the company’s smallest robotic vacuum cleaner, to Europe and the U.K. Already launched in Japan, the Roomba Mini Robot Vacuum & Mop + AutoEmpty Dock can fit into hard-to-reach spots that stick vacuum cleaners and standard-size robots can’t reach, said the company.

This is iRobot’s first product rollout since the Bedford, Mass.-based company emerged from a pre-packaged Chapter 11 bankruptcy process in January. It was acquired by its longtime contract manufacturer and contract lender, Piceawhich has research and development and manufacturing facilities in China and Vietnam.

“The Roomba Mini was developed well before iRobot was acquired by Picea,” said iRobot. “Picea’s acquisition had no impact on Roomba Mini’s rollout. Going forward, we expect that under Picea’s ownership, iRobot can take advantage of Picea’s sales and distribution expertise.”

Roomba Mini designed for tight spaces

The Roomba Mini Robot Vacuum & Mop + AutoEmpty Dock can better clean tight spaces, navigate narrow corners, and vacuum or mop in hard-to-reach places, according to iRobot. It equipped the new Roomba with ClearView lidar, enabling the robot to navigate around clutter and avoid rugs while mopping.

Users can start a cleaning mission through the Roomba Home App, use their voice assistant for hands-free operation, or simply press the button on the robot for instant cleaning. The robot does not require a Wi-Fi connection.

The disposable mopping pads trap dust, dirt, and grime, leaving a fresh citrus scent behind, said iRobot. The AutoEmpty Dock self-empties into an AllergenLock bag for up to three months of hands-free cleaning. The Roomba Mini is available in four colors: pink, mint, white, and black.

“Roomba Mini proves that small can be mighty,” said Gary Cohen, iRobot CEO. “Designed to clean small, tight spaces better than larger robots, our mini, compact robot delivers full-strength cleaning power in a smaller form, so it reaches more of your home.”

“Its modern, space-saving design and beautiful colors make it the perfect Roomba for any apartment or house where space is at a premium,” he added.

iRobot sees quick traction with vacuum in Japan

The Roomba Mini is equipped with ClearView lidar. | Source: iRobot

iRobot launched the Roomba Mini in Japan in February, where the company sold out the black model in the first week, an iRobot spokesperson told The Robot Report.

“Although originally conceived and developed as a powerful robot vacuum for smaller Japanese homes, we quickly learned that this little robot is also perfect for European homes, thanks to its compact design that easily navigates smaller spaces and adapts to a variety of floor plans.” said Nico Meurger, EMEA vice president at iRobot. ” Roomba Mini was introduced in Japan in mid-February, and the black version is already sold out.”

The Roomba Mini is available throughout the Europe and the U.K. starting on March 10 via iRobot.com at €399 and £379, respectively.