Robot Reviews

After iRobot slashed prices of the iRobot Looj in half this past Christmas, it seemed obvious that iRobot was clearing out the World's only Gutter Cleaning Robot to either discontinue the line or to make way for a new and improved model.

Luckily, iRobot has confirmed that it was the later, and today iRobot announces the next generation of the iRobot Looj.  Originally launched at Digital Life in September, 2007 - the original Looj has received a tepid response from the buying public, along with several design complaints that appear to have now been addressed with the next generation iRobot Looj, such as a new internal antenna design, a much needed Anti-flipping auger and redesigned Tool-less battery door. 

More details, including pictures and video to follow.  Here is the official press release from iRobot:

iRobot Announces 2nd Generation Looj™ Gutter Cleaning Robot

World’s Only Gutter-Cleaning Robot Sports New Internal Antenna, Anti-Flipping Auger and Smart Speed

LAS VEGAS, NV – Consumer Electronics Show – January 8, 2009 – iRobot Corp. (NASDAQ: IRBT) today unveiled the second generation iRobot® Looj™ Gutter Cleaning Robot at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The Looj, which makes gutter cleaning fast and easy by reducing ladder work and dangerous over-reaching, has new features that help it break up clogged leaves and debris faster and improve overall performance.

“We listened to our customers and designed an updated Looj based on their feedback,” said Matt Palma, Vice President Sales & Marketing, iRobot Home Robots Division. “The one-of-a-kind Looj saves people time and frees them from the dull, dirty and dangerous work of gutter cleaning better than ever.”

New Looj features include:

• Internal antenna

 • Anti-flipping auger

• Smart speed

• Tool-less battery door

The winner of the 2008 Best of CES Innovations Award, iRobot Looj is the only product of its kind. Controlled by a wireless remote that doubles as a detachable handle, the Looj cleans an entire stretch of gutter while the human operator stays in one spot, reducing the need to climb and reposition the ladder multiple times or juggle tools at dangerous heights.

The iRobot Looj Gutter Cleaning Robot drives easily under gutter straps, propelled by a three-stage auger that dislodges and eliminates dirt, leaves and debris that can cause water damage, overspills and ice dams in addition to creating a breeding ground for carpenter ants, mosquitoes and other pests.

The new Looj models 125, 135 and 155 will be available for purchase at www.irobot.com and select retailers this spring for a starting price of $129.99.