iRobot's CEO has assured Roomba vacuum owners that their data will remain in the US following the company's takeover by a Chinese firm. In an exclusive statement, the executive emphasized the company's commitment to data protection as a core business practice.
The acquisition of iRobot, the maker of popular Roomba robot vacuums, by a Chinese company has raised concerns among users about data privacy, particularly given the devices' ability to map homes and collect usage information. In response, iRobot's CEO provided reassurance in an exclusive interview published on January 1, 2026.
"Your data is not going to leave the US," the CEO stated, addressing fears that sensitive information could be transferred overseas. He further explained, "We protect the data... that's how we run the business," highlighting iRobot's established policies on safeguarding user information.
This statement comes amid growing scrutiny over data handling in smart home devices, especially after cross-border corporate deals. iRobot, known for its autonomous cleaning technology, has long emphasized privacy in its operations, with data processing centered in the United States. The takeover, while not detailed in the announcement, underscores the challenges of international business in the tech sector, where regulatory compliance and user trust are paramount.
No specific timeline for the integration or changes to data practices was mentioned, but the CEO's comments aim to alleviate immediate concerns for the millions of Roomba users worldwide.
