Key facts
- The FCC will vote on July 22 on a measure to bar sales of devices with components from blacklisted companies.
- The measure aims to close a loophole and protect national security.
- The FCC maintains a list of firms, including Huawei, whose equipment is barred for sale in the U.S.
- No current regulations prohibit the sale of electronics containing chips designed by Huawei's unit Hi-Silicon.
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced plans to vote on a new measure that would prohibit the sale of electronic devices in the United States if they contain components from companies on the agency's blacklist. This list includes Chinese telecoms giant Huawei, and the move aims to address national security concerns.
Currently, regulations do not prevent the sale of electronics, such as smartphones, that incorporate chips designed by Huawei's chip unit, Hi-Silicon. The proposed measure, if approved, would close this perceived loophole. The FCC stated that the action is intended to protect Americans from devices deemed to pose unacceptable risks to U.S. national security.
Separately, the FCC is also preparing to vote on an order to hold a 2027 auction for 160 megahertz of mid-band wireless spectrum in the Upper C-Band, which is crucial for 5G technology. This auction is expected to generate billions of dollars and includes provisions for financial support to upgrade aviation altimeters and compensate satellite operators to mitigate interference issues.