tech

The US is banning foreign robots

Posts from this topic will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed.

The US is banning foreign robots

TL;DR

  • The US government, via the FCC, has implemented an import ban on advanced robotic devices and power inverters made in foreign countries.
  • The ban is justified by "unacceptable risks to the national security of the United States or the safety and security of United States persons."
  • Advanced robotic devices are defined as machines capable of locomotion, obstacle avoidance, navigation, or movement, with environmental sensors and network connectivity, weighing over 4.4 pounds.
  • While not officially named, the ban will heavily impact China, a major producer of humanoid robots and power inverters like Sungrow and Huawei.
  • Companies can apply for waivers to import products, but are required to provide plans for manufacturing in the US.
  • Existing products already in the US are not affected by the ban, and security/compatibility updates are permitted until January 1st, 2029 through a separate waiver.