The Vergecast How Roomba got stuck
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Mar 25, 2025 
Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, a Verge reporter covering iRobot, dives into the Roomba's fascinating journey—its glorious rise and current struggles amid fierce competition. Will iRobot find a path back to success? Meanwhile, Michael Tamblyn, CEO of Kobo, reveals insights into the e-reader market as a notable alternative to Amazon. He discusses the evolving preferences of digital readers, emphasizing how technology and pricing strategies shape consumer choices. Tune in for a blend of nostalgia and future possibilities in home tech!
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iRobot's Unexpected Origin
- iRobot, known for Roombas, didn't initially aim to build vacuums.
- They focused on robots for tasks humans couldn't or shouldn't do, like the Mars rover.
Purpose-Built Robots
- iRobot prioritized purpose-built robots over humanoid designs.
- This approach was driven by practicality and cost-effectiveness for consumers.
Roomba's Humble Beginnings
- Joe Jones, an MIT engineer, pitched the Roomba idea to iRobot, having tinkered with a Lego prototype.
- The first Roomba, launched in 2002 for $200, used bump and cliff sensors.