FCC Bans Chinese Humanoid Robots and Power Inverters Amid National Security Concerns
New restrictions target unreleased models, aiming to fortify U.S. supply chains and reindustrialise American manufacturing.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Callum Smith
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced a ban on humanoid robots and connected power inverters from China on Tuesday, citing national security risks.
FCC officials assert that advanced robotic devices collect data, which malign actors could leverage to surveil Americans, enhance foreign intelligence capabilities, or remotely commandeer the robots.
This move forms part of a broader strategy, incentivizing companies to shift manufacturing operations back to the United States.
An administration official stated, "The President has made clear that the United States must have independent and secure supply chains for critical and emerging technologies like robotic devices and power inverters."
Economic security is national security, and the Trump administration continues to implement a nuanced and multi-faceted policy agenda to reindustrialize America.
The official further added, "Economic security is national security, and the Trump administration continues to implement a nuanced and multi-faceted policy agenda to reindustrialize America."
These impending restrictions, previously unreported, fortify the U.S. artificial intelligence supply chain against potential Chinese disruptions, data theft, and cyberattacks.
Historically, the U.S. Department of Defense already prohibits procuring solar photovoltaic cells, modules, or inverters manufactured by a foreign entity of concern.
This established precedent paves the way for the current bans, reflecting a consistent governmental approach.
The restrictions will apply exclusively to robot and inverter models not yet released.
Another U.S. official claims the FCC retains authority to revoke authorizations for models already approved for purchase, extending the ban's potential reach.
Unitree, one of three Chinese companies dominating the nascent humanoid robot industry, recently landed on the Pentagon's list of alleged Chinese military-backed companies.
This addition often precedes tougher U.S. action, indicating increased scrutiny on such firms.
Nvidia, a key partner, affirmed that data from these robots will remain in the U.S.
Nvidia also confirmed Unitree's primary customers are U.S. academic and research institutions, highlighting the domestic impact of these restrictions.
The FCC's work towards a Chinese inverter ban was influenced by recent European actions and concerns over disruption and malware installation.
Many non-Chinese suppliers anticipate exemption from these restrictions, mirroring the approach taken with recent bans on foreign drones and routers.