美媒大肆炒作，美企CEO坐不住了：是我们求中企救命啊…

Core Viewpoint - iRobot, once a leader in the global market for robotic vacuum cleaners, has filed for bankruptcy protection and is set to be acquired by Chinese company Picea, raising concerns in the U.S. about data privacy and security risks associated with the ownership change [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition and Market Dynamics - Picea, iRobot's main creditor, will acquire the company, which has led to media speculation about potential data privacy issues due to the change in ownership to a Chinese firm [1][2]. - The global market for robotic vacuum cleaners is shifting, with Chinese companies projected to dominate the market by 2025, holding nearly 70% of the market share [6][7]. - iRobot's CEO Gary Cohen clarified that the acquisition is a rescue effort rather than a hostile takeover, emphasizing a positive partnership with Picea [2][8]. Group 2: Data Privacy Concerns - U.S. media have raised alarms about data privacy, suggesting that robotic vacuums can collect sensitive household data, but iRobot's privacy policy states that data is not transmitted to servers without user consent [4][5]. - Despite past incidents of data breaches, iRobot has maintained a strong security performance, although its privacy ratings have declined to average levels [4][5]. - The narrative in U.S. media appears to be more about geopolitical tensions rather than genuine concerns for consumer data security, as they call for government action against Chinese technology firms [5][6]. Group 3: Company Performance and Future Outlook - iRobot has faced declining sales and innovation gaps over the past four years, leading to its bankruptcy filing after three consecutive years of net losses [8][9]. - The restructuring process is expected to be completed by February 2024, with iRobot retaining its brand and operational structure in the U.S. [8][9]. - Cohen expressed optimism about the future, stating that the acquisition will preserve the brand and save over 500 jobs, marking a new chapter for iRobot [9][10].