The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has added foreign-made advanced robots and internet-connected power inverters to its "Covered List" over national security concerns. The ruling, issued July 28, blocks the FCC approval process required for new models to be imported and sold in the country. While the order applies broadly to all foreign-made equipment, China is identified as the primary target. With this move, Washington aims to prevent surveillance and cyberattacks, reduce dependence on China for critical technology, and encourage manufacturing in America.
Risks posed by robots entering factories and labs
Humanoid robots are no longer just for show; companies are preparing them for factories and warehouses, while researchers use them in lab tests. Four-legged models can inspect hazardous areas or survey large tracts of land. Yet these machines come equipped with cameras, microphones, and environment-mapping sensors. Most connect to cloud services for AI processing; software updates and remote support also rely on that same connection. According to the FCC, the core problem lies in this connectivity.
If an attacker breaches the system, the robot could harvest sensitive information, transmit data to unauthorized locations, or even tamper with its movements to take remote control. Recent vulnerabilities in Yarbo robotic lawn mowers demonstrated that live camera feeds and saved Wi-Fi credentials could be accessed. The stakes are far higher when considering a much more powerful robot operating inside a factory or research facility. Federal officials warn that hostile governments could use this technology to surveil Americans or gather intelligence from sensitive sites.
Smart inverters also targeted
Though they attract less attention than walking robots, smart inverters play a critical role in America's energy system. These devices, which convert direct current from solar panels and batteries into alternating current, are increasingly connected to the internet, allowing operators to monitor performance and push updates remotely. Yet that same remote access can open the door to attackers. A coordinated intervention could disrupt energy flow and impact internet cloud services and the businesses that depend on them. That is why the FCC included connected inverters within the scope of the restriction.
Ban hits new models
The FCC ruling does not require the surrender or recall of robots already in use. Equipment on the Covered List cannot obtain a new FCC authorization. Since most connected electronic products must receive this approval before they can be imported, marketed, or sold, the restriction affects new models that have not yet been authorized. Previously approved products can remain on the market; however, the FCC reportedly reserves the right to revoke past authorizations. Moreover, companies could obtain conditional approval following a risk assessment by national security agencies. Officials expect that non-Chinese suppliers will be largely exempted, making the measure felt most keenly by Chinese manufacturers.
Chinese companies' market share and reactions
Chinese companies have been making a splash in the global market with affordable humanoid robots. According to Counterpoint Research estimates, Unitree holds about a fifth of the global humanoid robot market. The firm had also partnered with Nvidia to use its Blackwell AI chips on a robot platform. Nvidia stated that data from these robots would remain in the US, and that the majority of Unitree's American customers are universities and research institutions. Beijing, meanwhile, reacted sharply to the ruling. China's embassy in Washington accused the US of unfairly targeting Chinese businesses, while a Foreign Ministry spokesperson called the policy protectionist and warned it could harm American companies and consumers.
Balancing security and innovation
The ban may give US manufacturers more room to compete against low-cost Chinese machines in the domestic market. In the short term, however, it is expected to create problems for researchers and startups. Many American teams use affordable Chinese robots for software testing or AI training; losing access to new models could raise costs and limit the hardware variety available for experiments. The restrictions could also strain partnerships between US chipmakers and Chinese robotics firms. As Washington works to strengthen domestic production, the investment, skilled workforce, and component supply needed to build a competitive American robotics supply chain will take time.
Recommendations for consumer safety
Experts advise keeping the following points in mind when purchasing a home-connected robot:
- Look for the FCC ID number: This number should appear on the product, its packaging, or the manufacturer's website for connected devices sold in the US.
- Disable remote access when not needed: The feature that lets you control the robot from anywhere can become an entry point for malicious actors.
- Install every security update: Enable automatic updates and avoid brands with a poor support track record.
- Use a guest Wi-Fi network: Whenever possible, connect robots and smart devices to a separate guest network away from your main network.
- Protect your account with a strong password and two-factor authentication.
- Before buying a connected inverter, ask questions: Find out who can access it remotely, how software updates are handled, and what happens when the online service is discontinued.
While Washington is mandating thorough security vetting for network-connected machines equipped with cameras and motors, there is a clear trade-off in blocking new foreign models. The restrictions protect sensitive systems, but they could slow robotics innovation in the US for a while until domestic production ramps up.
