iRobot’s Latest Roomba Will Keep Your Carpets Dry

iRobot has taken the covers off of its “most advanced” 2-in-1 robot cleaner yet; the Roomba Max 705 Combo, which introduces a physical mop cover designed to keep carpets dry.

Launching in Europe, with a North American release coming later this year, the Max 705 Combo also packs a boosted suction system, AI-powered obstacle avoidance, and a fully automated dock.

But it’s the Max 705 Combo’s clever mopping trick that is the standout feature here.

It’s got a roller-style mop that stays in place during cleaning, and features a retractable shield that automatically deploys to prevent dragging moisture over rugs.

It’s a direct attempt to solve one of the biggest shortcomings of combo bots.

Cheaper models usually require users to set non-mopping zones in the app, and higher-end rivals like Dreame, Ecovacs and Roborock feature mop lifting to keep contact between mopping pads and carpets to a minimum.

Some newer models even leave their mopping pads in the dock while they tackle vacuuming carpets, but iRobot’s approach is definitely a first.

Aside from the headline-grabbing mopping smarts, the Max 705 Combo uses LiDAR to map your home in 3D and dodge the usual hazards – cables, toys, pet waste and so on – with upgraded corner-cleaning performance thanks to a new PowerSpin roller mop with PerfectEdge tech.

Suction is rated at 175x over iRobot’s 600 models and it boasts the company’s standard anti-tangle rubber brushes and dual edge-sweepers.

The 705 comes with iRobot’s AutoWash Dock, which handles heated mop washing and drying, auto-refilling, and self-emptying for up to 75 days.

Like other recent Roombas, the new flagship supports room and object-based cleaning, voice assistant control, and no-go zone setup via the iRobot Home app.

The Max 705 Combo costs €1099 in Europe, and will roll out in North America and Japan later this year.

It’s been a turbulent few months for iRobot, with the failed acquisition by Amazon being the biggest news.

Back in March it unveiled an updated Roomba series for 2025, but there were concerns as to whether these new cleaners will be enough to reverse the current trajectory.

Just days after that big launch announcement, it warned investors that it may be forced to close in the next 12 months unless it can refinance its debt or find a buyer.