iRobot founder wary of modern walking robots
Colin Angle, the founder of iRobot, has expressed strong reservations about contemporary bipedal robots. In a recent interview, he stated he would not approach within 10 feet of them due to safety concerns. This comes amid ongoing advancements in robotics technology.
Colin Angle, co-founder and former CEO of iRobot—the company behind the popular Roomba vacuum—recently voiced significant doubts about the reliability of today's walking robots. Speaking at an event in October 2025, Angle explained his reluctance to get close to these machines, highlighting potential dangers in their current design and functionality.
"I wouldn't go within 10 feet of them," Angle said, emphasizing the risks posed by bipedal robots that mimic human walking. He pointed out that while iRobot focused on wheeled robots for household tasks, the shift toward legged designs has introduced complexities that compromise stability and safety. iRobot, founded in 1990, revolutionized consumer robotics with practical, low-risk products, but Angle believes the industry has veered toward flashy but flawed innovations.
Angle's comments come as robotics research accelerates, with companies like Boston Dynamics showcasing advanced walking models such as Atlas. However, he argued that these robots still struggle with real-world unpredictability, like uneven terrain or unexpected obstacles, leading to falls or erratic behavior. This perspective contrasts with optimistic industry views, where proponents see walking robots as the future for tasks in dynamic environments.
Background on iRobot reveals its pivot from military contracts to consumer goods after 2000, culminating in the Roomba's 2002 launch. Angle stepped down as CEO in 2023 amid Amazon's failed acquisition attempt, but remains chairman. His cautionary stance underscores a broader debate in robotics: balancing innovation with practicality. No specific incident prompted his remarks, but they reflect ongoing concerns about robot autonomy and human interaction.
Experts note that while AI and sensors have improved robot mobility, full reliability remains elusive. Angle's view serves as a reminder that technological progress must prioritize user safety to gain widespread adoption.