New Roomba Flagship Introduces Innovative Mopping Feature to Combat Stubborn Dirt and Revitalize iRobot’s Reputation

Key Takeaways

iRobot has launched the Roomba Max 875 Combo, a versatile robovac and mop featuring innovative technologies.
The unique ‘ThermaMist’ function pre-treats stains with heated mist, enhancing cleaning effectiveness.
The vacuum incorporates a ‘SealForce’ system to improve suction power, although US sales are currently paused due to regulatory issues.

iRobot’s Latest Innovation: The Roomba Max 875 Combo

iRobot has introduced its latest flagship product, the Roomba Max 875 Combo, during IFA 2026. This device functions as both a robot vacuum and a mop, showcasing advanced features in floor care.

One standout feature is the ‘ThermaMist’ technology, designed to improve mopping performance. According to Adam Pope, iRobot’s Chief Engineer, this ultrasonic warm mist pre-treats stains for enhanced cleaning. The heating occurs in the dock, which allows the robot to utilize warm water without compromising battery life. The system leverages the ultrasonic process to warm the water, making it effective for tackling sticky, oily stains. Initial demonstrations suggest promising results, although the functionality was not fully showcased at the event.

The mop design has also been enhanced; it now boasts a larger diameter and spins faster than previous models, providing additional scrubbing power. It can extend to clean edges effectively, and a shield helps mitigate excessive moisture when transitioning between hard floors and carpets.

In terms of vacuuming capabilities, the Roomba Max 875 Combo introduces the ‘SealForce’ system. This innovative feature deploys a skirt around the suction inlet to create a loose seal against carpet fibers, increasing airflow and suction effectiveness. While initial observations of this feature’s operation indicate a modest range of motion, it holds potential for better dirt pickup. The vacuum supports an impressive suction power of 35,000Pa, placing it among the industry leaders.

Despite recent struggles in the robot vacuum market, iRobot is looking to reclaim its status with these innovations. The Roomba Max 875 Combo is available in the UK for £1,099 (approximately $1,490), although its US launch is currently delayed due to a new FCC ban on “advanced” foreign-made robots. While iRobot is navigating these challenges following its acquisition by Chinese manufacturer Picea, plans are in development to eventually bring new products to the US market.

Overall, the Roomba Max 875 Combo signifies a promising step toward innovation in robotic home cleaning, particularly with its advanced mopping functions and improved suction capabilities. Moving forward, the response from users and subsequent testing will determine its effectiveness in real-world applications.

The content above is a summary. For more details, see the source article.