iRobot adds a retractable mop to the groundbreaking Roomba vacuum

In short: iRobot has long offered a robotic vacuum cleaner and a robotic mop to make your life easier, but the two have never crossed paths — until now. On Tuesday, the robotic maker announced the Roomba J7+ Combo – 2-in-1 that was billed as the world’s most advanced robotic vacuum and mop.

Many 2-in-1s so far have had a poor user experience, said Keith Hartsfield, product manager at iRobot, either because they require separate and time-consuming cleaning jobs or because they make more mess by not lifting the cleaning pad high enough. To avoid rugs and carpets.

The iRobot solution is capable of vacuuming and mopping in one cleaning task thanks to a retractable mop that lifts high to keep carpets dry. Built-in sensors help the robot detect different floor types and operate the appropriate cleaning tools, and with the included base station, you won’t have to think about emptying the container for months.

The latest iRobot is also smarter than ever. According to the company, it can identify more than 80 common items to clean specific areas on demand, such as litter boxes, dishwashers, toilets, and more. The robot can also detect and avoid dog bowls, pet waste, socks, backpacks, wires, and shoes, and understands nearly 600 voice commands.

Optionally, the iRobot Home app allows users to select versions to clean and adjust the amount of cleaning solution they want the mop to dispense.

The iRobot Roomba Combo j7+ is available for pre-order starting today at $1,099 and shipping October 4. It will also be available as part of the iRobot Select Membership Program from 2023.

Related reading: Amazon buys Roomba Maker iRobot for $1.7 billion in cash

For $29 per month, a subscription includes a premium Roomba with automatic dirt disposal, delivery of accessories like filters and brushes when you need them, and accidental damage protection. After three years, you can switch to a new robot. In particular, you will have to sign a two-year contract and pay an activation fee of $49. It would be more attractive without the long-term commitment.