US Is Banning Foreign Robots—Even Roombas
In briefThe FCC added foreign-made advanced robots and connected power inverters to its banned list.The agencys definition of “advanced robotic devices” is so broad it covers vacuum cleaners like Roombas and other common devices.The restrictions apply only to new models seeking FCC approval. Existing products already approved or purchased are not affected. The U.S. government earlier this week announced an import ban on “advanced robotic devices” from foreign countries, with its sights set specifically on China. But its not just humanoids the government wants to stop from entering the United States—the ban extends to robot vacuum cleaners like Roombas too. The Federal Communications Commission has added foreign-made advanced robotic devices, including humanoid and quadruped robots, and connected power inverters to its Covered List after U.S. national security agencies determined the products pose unacceptable security risks. In a press release on Tuesday, the FCC said the move follows findings by a White House-convened interagency group that concluded the products could create supply chain weaknesses and cybersecurity risks affecting critical infrastructure and public safety. “I welcome these Executive Branch national security determinations, and I am pleased that the FCC has now added foreign-produced advanced robotics and power inverters to the FCC‘s Covered List,” FCC Chairman Brendan