StrictlyVC Download Building and losing iRobot: Why Colin Angle thinks the FTC is to blame
Dec 23, 2025
In a captivating discussion, Colin Angle, the co-founder and former CEO of iRobot, delves into the climactic journey of his company, from Roomba’s success to its recent bankruptcy. He argues that the blockage of a $1.7 billion Amazon acquisition was not just a business misstep but a pivotal error by regulators. Angle also shares the taxing 18-month fight with the FTC and discusses his new stealth startup aimed at blending emotional sophistication with robotics. Plus, he offers insights on the future of humanoid robots and the importance of focusing on real user needs.
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Regulators Misread The Competitive Dynamics
- The FTC and EU blocked the Amazon–iRobot deal despite low market-share and vibrant competition.
- Colin Angle argues regulators misunderstood the acquisition's potential to accelerate innovation for consumers.
Blocked Deals Chill M&A And Innovation
- The blocked deal left consumers and iRobot worse off and discouraged tech M&A more broadly.
- Angle says the precedent chills entrepreneurs and investors by making exits riskier.
Eighteen Months Of Exhausting Regulatory Filings
- iRobot produced and delivered over 100,000 documents during 18 months of regulatory review.
- Colin walked the FTC halls and saw examiners displaying printouts of blocked deals like trophies, which he found chilling.