iRobot, the pioneer in robot vacuum technology, has announced a significant revamp of its product lineup with the introduction of eight new Roomba models. The new robots feature lidar navigation and mapping, a technology previously absent from iRobot's products, marking a major shift in the company's approach to robotic vacuum design.

The new lineup, which starts at $299 and goes up to $999, includes the entry-level 105 series, the 205 series with an onboard dust compactor, and the higher-end 405 and 505 models with advanced features like dual spinning mopping pads. The robots come in black and white and will be available for preorder on March 18th in the US and select European markets.

The addition of lidar navigation and mapping is a significant departure from iRobot's traditional camera-based vSLAM navigation. According to Warren Fernandez, iRobot's product management lead, the company made the change after evaluating the technology for some time, believing it is now mature enough and affordable enough to fit into their product roadmap. The lidar technology enables faster mapping, more agile navigation, and room-specific cleaning, among other features.

The new Roombas also feature an ultrasonic carpet detection sensor, which allows the robots to intelligently avoid carpets when mopping. The mopping models now have three levels of water flow and iRobot's unique SmartScrub option. Additionally, the robots have a new industrial design, with a geometric grid pattern, and a new iRobot app that provides a real-time cleaning view aided by lidar.

iRobot has also started publishing suction power specs for its robots, with the new models featuring 7,000Pa and four suction levels. While this is significantly lower than some competitors, Fernandez notes that suction power is not the only factor in a robot's cleaning ability.

The top-of-the-line Roomba Plus 505 Combo Robot Plus AutoWash Dock, priced at $999, features dual spinning mop pads for scrubbing hard floors, a multifunction dock that washes and dries the mop pads, and heated drying. The Roomba 404 is a step down in price, lacking some of the advanced features of the 505.

The budget-friendly 105 and 205 series offer many of the same features as the higher-end models, including lidar-based mapping, 7,000Pa suction, and object sensing and avoidance capabilities. The 205 series features an onboard dust compactor, which can last up to two months before emptying, eliminating the need for an auto-empty dock.

The launch of these new models marks a significant shift in iRobot's strategy, as the company faces increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers. By adopting lidar navigation and mapping, iRobot is acknowledging the importance of this technology in the robotic vacuum market. The new lineup's competitive pricing and advanced features may help the company regain its footing in the market.

While some may view this move as a capitulation to the competition, it's clear that iRobot is committed to innovation and providing customers with the best possible products. As the company navigates this new landscape, it will be interesting to see how these new robots perform in real-world tests and how they impact the overall market.