The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announces a new import ban targeting specific “advanced robotic devices” and power inverters made by foreign manufacturers, according to reports citing the FCC’s Tuesday action. The FCC adds two categories to its “Covered List,” which identifies products subject to restrictions on importation into the United States.
The expanded list includes “mobile” robots, such as humanoid and quadruped robot models, as well as related categories of advanced robotics equipment. The FCC also covers power inverters produced abroad. The stated rationale centers on concerns that foreign-made connected devices could pose security risks, including the possibility of remote interference or unwanted functionality.
While some coverage connects the measure to China, the FCC order itself does not necessarily name a particular country. Instead, it focuses on device categories and their origin, aiming to restrict imports of certain foreign communications-capable technologies.
