iRobot launches eight new Roombas and finally adds lidar mapping

This week, the company that invented the robot vacuum over 20 years ago announced eight new models that are definitely not the Roombas you’re used to. Not only do they look totally different, but they also work differently, thanks to a new-to-Roomba feature: lidar navigation and mapping. iRobot has started publishing suction power specs for its robots The new lineup starts at $299 and goes up to $999. It features the entry-level 105 series of vacuums and vacuum mops with the option of an auto-empty dock, the 205 series with a new onboard dust compactor, and the higher-end 405 and 505 models that bring dual spinning mopping pads to the iRobot family for the first time. The new bots come in black and white and will be available to preorder on March 18th at iRobot.com in the US and select European markets. The Roomba 505 is iRobot’s first robot vacuum with lidar and dual spinning mopping pads. Image: iRobot According to the company, this is the largest product launch in iRobot history ... Read full article.