iRobot Makes a Privacy Mess With Plans to Sell Home Data

iRobot faced widespread media backlash and consumer outcry when it came to light that the company was considering selling maps of customers’ homes for additional revenue. Though iRobot’s privacy policy states that its Roomba robotic vacuum collects data as it cleans, consumers and privacy advocates were shocked to learn that iRobot might “reach a deal” to sell this data – including details about home interiors - to major tech companies involved in developing “smart home” technology. Amid negative media coverage and consumer backlash, the company was forced to walk back its statements and clarify that it would not undertake any mapping or data extraction efforts without consumer opt-in.