Yes, I’m guilty. I fell asleep on the job and missed this one by a little bit.

The iBot wheelchair, the high tech heart throb of many a powered wheeler has been discontinued. A December 12, 2008 announcement from the manufacturer stated the following:

“Despite significant, long-term investment by the company and acceptance of the iBOT mobility system, demand has not proven sufficient to create a sustainable market. A challenging reimbursement environment for innovative assistive technologies has been a factor in limiting demand.”

Independence Technology will continue to support the product:

“If you are an iBOT® Mobility System owner, please be assured that you can call the Technical Support Center in the U.S. at (800) 463-3669 and in the U.K. at 0800 404 9605 anytime you have an issue with your device. All other inquiries should be directed to the Customer Zone at: (877) 794-3125.”

Bummer! This was an advanced wheelchair with the potential to free up the technological grid-lock that is today’s powered wheelchair. Hopefully some of the innovative technology of the iBot will transfer over or inspire other manufacturers. Although I doubt if that will happen soon, especially with mega-buyer Medicare muscling lower prices for “innovative” and common powered wheelchairs, pressure from cheaper imports, and the horrid state of the economy. And so ends the noble experiment.

Nice try J&J!