FCC chair: Robot import restrictions aim to boost US production

Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr announced new restrictions targeting imports of new Chinese robots and power inverters, stating the aim is to quickly incentivize U.S. production and address national security risks. The FCC's action, taken last month, bars new models of humanoid and quadruped robots, as well as connected power inverters used for renewable energy sources and data centers.

Carr emphasized the need to onshore investment and development for critical national security elements, expressing concern about potential risks from millions of such devices in the future. The restrictions are not an outright import ban, but rather prevent new device models from obtaining FCC authorization. Devices that already hold FCC equipment authorization can continue to be imported, marketed, and sold. Owners of existing devices can continue to use them, and firmware updates remain permissible under a separate waiver.

The FCC stated that the action is "country neutral" and that the producer's nationality is not relevant, with the focus being on the place of production according to the Buy American test, which requires over 65 percent U.S. component cost. The definition of covered robots is broad, including ground robots over 4.4 lbs with an environmental sensor and specific connectivity and navigation software, which could encompass warehouse autonomous mobile robot fleets. Stationary industrial arms, medical devices, and drones are excluded from the rule.

Notably, Chinese manufacturer Unitree had its entire current lineup, including its R1, H2, and A2 models, cleared through FCC certification weeks before the decision, meaning these grants remain valid and unaffected by the new rule.