DEVELOPING: Roomba Maker Files for Bankruptcy Amid Crushing Debt and Tariff Burden

Breaking News: iRobot, Maker of Roomba, Files for Bankruptcy Amid Crushing Debt and Tariff Burden iRobot, the US-based company behind the popular Roomba robot vacuum, has filed for bankruptcy. The move comes after the company struggled to cope with significant debt and the financial burden of tariffs imposed on its imported products. This development occurred on December 15, 2025. The company, which owes US Customs and Border Protection $3.4 million in unpaid tariffs, is being taken over by its main manufacturer, Shenzhen Picea Robotics. The takeover is expected to ensure that Roomba devices continue to function as usual. iRobot also owes nearly $100 million to Shenzhen Picea Robotics. Founded in 1990 by MIT researchers, iRobot had been facing intense competition from foreign rivals. The company's failed merger with Amazon in 2023 further exacerbated its financial woes. The imposition of tariffs on imported products, including Roomba devices manufactured in Vietnam, added to the company's financial strain. The takeover by Shenzhen Picea Robotics is expected to provide some stability to the Roomba brand. However, the exact terms of the takeover and the future of iRobot's operations remain unclear. This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.