If you own a Roomba, the news that iRobot has filed for bankruptcy protection may have caused concern. The Massachusetts-based company, which pioneered the robotic vacuum cleaner and has sold more than 50 million units worldwide, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the District of Delaware on 14 December 2025. Under a restructuring agreement, Chinese manufacturer Shenzhen Picea Robotics will acquire 100% of the company's equity—effectively ending iRobot's 35-year history as an independent American enterprise.
The deal will wipe out existing shareholders entirely. Court documents reveal the company carries approximately $190 million (£142 million) in secured debt, alongside owing its manufacturer over $161.5 million (£120.9 million) for production costs. But for the millions of households relying on their Roomba's smart features, the most pressing question remains: will your robot vacuum continue to work as before?
