On December 14, 2025 (local time), iRobot, a well - known manufacturer specializing in robotic vacuum cleaners, formally submitted a Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection petition to the U.S. District Court in Delaware. The entire bankruptcy process is anticipated to wrap up by February 2026.

According to iRobot's official announcement, it has entered into a Restructuring Support Agreement with its secured creditors. Additionally, it has reached the same agreement with its main contract manufacturer, Picea Robotics Co., Ltd. (commonly known as Picea Robotics) based in Shenzhen, as well as its subsidiaries. Under the terms of this agreement, Picea is set to acquire 100% of iRobot's equity. iRobot has stated that this strategic move will bring about a substantial optimization of its balance sheet. Moreover, it will guarantee the smooth and normal operation of the company while safeguarding its global business presence.

The company has placed special emphasis on the fact that throughout the bankruptcy process, several key aspects will remain untouched. These include the functionality of its app, customer service programs, global partnerships, supply chain collaborations, and support for products that are currently in transit.

It's worth noting that iRobot had previously struck an acquisition deal with Amazon back in 2022. However, this agreement fell through due to intense antitrust scrutiny. In recent years, iRobot has been facing a double - whammy. On one hand, it has encountered fierce competition from Chinese brands. On the other hand, it has been under pressure from U.S. tariffs imposed on imports from Vietnam. As a result, iRobot's market share has been steadily declining, which ultimately led to its decision to undergo bankruptcy reorganization.