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The Vergecast · August 13, 2026 · 33m

Should you let a robot mow your lawn?

The Vergecast revisits a previous Verge review that found robot lawnmowers not worth buying in most scenarios, in light of a new class of 2026 models described as “Roombas with razor blades.” Realtor and smart home reviewer Brandon Doyle joins the host to talk about their hands-on experiences with the newest robotic mowers. The discussion covers how these machines handle bumpy terrain and unpredictable obstacles like “crazy chickens.” The episode aims to answer whether the improved capabilities finally justify the cost for everyday yards.

This summary was generated from show notes and public descriptions, not from a full transcript review. Details may contain inaccuracies.

Highlights

Robot lawnmowers get a second look
The Verge's earlier conclusion that robot lawnmowers weren't worth buying outside a few scenarios is being revisited in light of a new class of 2026 models.
Roombas with razor blades
The new robot mowers are described as “Roombas with razor blades” that can tackle bumpy terrain and dodge obstacles like “crazy chickens.”
A realtor's perspective on smart home gear
Brandon Doyle, a realtor and smart home reviewer, joins the host to share hands-on experience with 2026's newest robotic mowers.

Misc

The host describes the new robot mowers as “Roombas with razor blades” ready to “dodge crazy chickens.”
A further reading article is titled “I put four robot lawnmowers through a brutal backyard battle — and only one person got injured.”
Another further reading article: “The US government just banned Roombas.”
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