iRobot i3+ Roomba robot vacuum. | Credit: iRobot
iRobot introduced the Roomba i3+ today, its lowest-cost robot vacuum that features a self-emptying cleaning base. It also features iRobot’s new Genius Home Intelligence Platform for personalized cleaning control.
The iRobot Roomba i3+ robot vacuum is available now in the U.S. ($599) and Canada ($749) at iRobot’s online store. It’ll hit retailers in September. The Roomba i3+ can also be purchased without the clean base starting at $399 USD and $499 CAD. It is expected to be available in other international markets beginning in Q1 2021.
Like the iRobot Roomba i7+ ($799.99) and Roomba s9+ ($1,099.99) robot vacuums, the Roomba i3+ automatically empties up to 60 days worth of dirt into the clean base, which doubles as its charging station. Once the battery on the Roomba i3+ is low, it’ll automatically return to the charging base and resume cleaning once charged.
The Roomba i3+ uses a three-stage cleaning system that consists of dual rubber brushes, an edge-sweeping brush to get into corners, and suction power that iRobot claims is 10x that of the Roomba 600 Series.
Using the new iRobot Home App, the Genius platform offers personalized control over how, when and where Roombas clean. Using machine learning, the robots can automatically detect and suggest areas that are messy most often. The robot would recommend these areas be designated precision clean zones. Users can then tell a smart speaker, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home, to have the Roomba clean just those precision clean zones. Users can manually set clean zones, too.
Available for iOS and Android devices, the Genius platform can also control the i3+ via event-based automations, recommend cleaning schedules by observing your cleaning routines, and offer preset favorite cleaning routines.
“Innovative cleaning experiences have been, and always will be, foundational to our product offerings,” said Keith Hartsfield, executive vice president and chief product officer at iRobot. “We have a proven track record of delivering products that make consumers’ lives easier. The Roomba i3+ expands our lineup to offer not only exceptional cleaning performance and value, but greater personalization and control delivered by iRobot Genius. The iRobot Genius platform also allows the Roomba i3+ to evolve and get smarter over time, providing new ways for customers to clean their unique homes.’
Another feature of iRobot Genius includes recommended keep out zones. If the i3+ routinely gets stuck in a certain area of its environment, it’ll learn over time that this area gives it trouble. The robot will recommend that it should stay away from the area.
iRobot Genius is also available on the Roomba i7/i7+ and s9/s9+ robot vacuums and Braava jet m6 robot mops.