Chinese robotics manufacturers, led by Picea Robotics, are poised to dominate the global smart vacuum market with the acquisition of iRobot. Five Chinese brands, including Roborock and Ecovacs, hold nearly 70% of the market share. Shipments rose 18.7% to 17.4 million units in the first three quarters of 2025.

Picea Robotics will acquire iRobot after the US firm filed for bankruptcy protection due to competition from Chinese rivals. Shenzhen Picea Robotics and its subsidiary will take 100% equity in iRobot. iRobot expects the bankruptcy process to be completed by February 2026.

Founded in 2016, Picea Robotics manufactures household appliances for various companies and competes with its own brand, 3i. iRobot, established in 1990, achieved success with the Roomba. In 2024, Amazon.com’s $1.7 billion takeover of iRobot was scrapped due to regulatory concerns in Europe.

iRobot faced increased costs due to new tariffs, owing $3.4 million in unpaid tariffs. Picea Robotics, the acquirer, was iRobot’s key lender and manufacturer. The deal follows iRobot’s failed sale to Amazon.com and bankruptcy filing in 2025.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: China cements global lead in smart vacuums as Picea acquires Roomba maker iRobot