The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) added foreign-produced mobile robots and networked power inverters to its Covered List on July 28. The move generally prevents new models from receiving the equipment authorization required for import, marketing, or sale in the US.
Previously authorized models can still be sold, and devices people already own are unaffected. Federal purchases and use are also unaffected by this FCC action.
Previously authorized hardware can keep receiving qualifying security and compatibility updates. FCC rules otherwise exclude covered equipment from certification procedures for Class I and Class II permissive changes.
The FCC's Office of Engineering and Technology granted a waiver the same day, through at least January 1, 2029, for software and firmware changes that "patch vulnerabilities and facilitate compatibility with different operating systems."
Manufacturers can apply through the FCC for Conditional Approval. The Department of War (DoW) may approve robotic devices, while DoW or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may approve power inverters. Applications must be submitted by January 1, 2028.
