The world's smallest robot vacuum: iRobot Roomba Mini launches with AutoEmpty Dock and LiDAR

With the Roomba Mini, iRobot proves that it can still deliver innovative products even after being acquired by Chinese robotics powerhouse Picea Robotics. Measuring 24.5 cm (9.6 in) in diameter, the Roomba Mini is only roughly half the size of a conventional robot vacuum, enabling it to clean tight spaces between furniture.
At around 9.2 cm (3.6 in) tall, the device is similar in height to many rival models. Additionally, iRobot has downsized the AutoEmpty Dock to reduce its footprint, making the Roomba Mini especially suitable for tiny apartments. According to the company, the Mini generates up to 70 times more suction power than the older Roomba 600 series. However, the robot vacuum now features only a single brush rather than iRobot’s usual dual-brush system, which may reduce its cleaning effectiveness on carpets.
As its name suggests, the AutoEmpty Dock automatically empties the robot vacuum’s dustbin. The dock houses a dust bag that typically needs replacing every 90 days. The Roomba Mini features a somewhat unusual mopping function: Instead of an advanced self-cleaning roller, iRobot opted for single-use mop pads placed over the suction inlet. As a result, the Mini can either vacuum or mop, but not do both simultaneously. Navigation and mapping are handled by a LiDAR scanner.
Price and availability
The iRobot Roomba Mini with the AutoEmpty Dock is available now in Europe for €399 / £379 and comes in white, pink, mint and black. More information can be found on the official product page.
Source(s)
iRobot (press release | product page)














