The FCC this week banned all new “foreign-produced advanced robotic devices” due to an “unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States.” The government says networked robotic systems lead to vulnerabilities that allow bad actors to control the devices and collect surveillance data from Americans.
Advanced robotic devices are defined as software-controlled autonomous robots that can move, navigate obstacles, and have a sensor capable of perceiving the environment.
The ban does not only focus on humanoid robots, but also includes robot vacuum cleaners. Almost all robot vacuums are sold by companies located in China or are manufactured in China. Even Roomba maker iRobot, once a flagship American vacuum company, is now owned by a Chinese company following its bankruptcy.
Companies can continue to import and sell robot vacuums already on the market, but new models will need government approval. As The edge notes that gaining approval requires a commitment to investing in U.S. manufacturing, but no investigation into safety practices despite multiple mentions of national security concerns.
Future Matter-enabled smart vacuums that work with HomeKit from companies like Roborock and Ecovacs may not be able to be sold in the United States, leaving few options for American consumers unless the companies commit to moving manufacturing to the United States.
In addition to robot vacuums, the FCC has banned new humanoid and quadruped robots, as well as foreign-made inverters.
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