iRobot brings Wi-Fi connectivity to its latest Roomba
Smart Home
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We really like iRobot's Roomba 880 that we tested a couple of years ago.
So we were super psyched that the brand came out with its next version, the 980.
Especially because this model has a secret.
Its WIFI enable guide is something that we haven't seen on any other Rumba in the past.
I mean, Dyson introduced the 360 eye last year at [UNKNOWN].
[UNKNOWN] announced its own connect version at [UNKNOWN] this year.
And then, just a week after, boom!
A WiFi enabled Roomba.
In addition to the WiFi connectivity for Android and IOS users, it lets you set schedules and start your device remotely on WiFi or cellular networks.
This model also has sensors and a camera for better tracking around a room.
It also updated its battery, so it now has a lithium ion battery designed to last longer and clean better overall.
iRobot also gave its virtual wall barriers a, Major makeover.
You know those giant clunky things that use massive batteries that no one would ever have sitting in a drawer at home?
They've totally overhauled them so they're slimmer but have the same functionality.
And they're Controllable with double A batteries, so that's way, way simpler.
So you'd think that all of these fancy new options would translate to better performance, but it didn't.
It was so disappointing!
It didn't even out-perform iRobot's Own $700 880.
And this one cost $200 more.
In fact the only category where it actually out perform the 880 was picking up pet hair and the differences were pretty negligible.
Really something that falls within the margin Of air during our testing.
So while it's still really good.
And the app works really well.
I'd hold off until we review the Dyson 360i and Neato Botvac Connected.
For more check out our full review on CNET.
COM.
From the CNET smart home, I'm Megan Wollerton for CNET appliances.
