In brief

The FCC has barred new foreign-produced advanced robotic devices and power inverters from being imported or sold in the United States without a waiver. The measure covers products such as robot vacuums, lawn mowers and delivery robots that navigate autonomously, use sensors or AI, connect to networks and meet specified weight criteria. The agency argues that these devices may create cybersecurity, surveillance and supply-chain risks because they can collect detailed information about private spaces, including maps, images and usage patterns. However, the policy appears to focus heavily on where products are designed, manufactured, assembled and tested, as well as whether manufacturers invest in US production.

The action does not disable existing robot vacuums or prevent consumers from using devices they already own. Previously authorized models may remain on sale and continue receiving software and security support, while manufacturers will need FCC waivers for future foreign-made models. This could delay new releases, reduce product availability or increase prices, particularly because leading brands depend heavily on Chinese manufacturing and components. Owners are advised to keep firmware updated, use strong passwords and multifactor authentication, review companion-app permissions and map-storage practices, and place connected vacuums on a separate guest or IoT network to limit the damage of a possible compromise.

Source: ZDNET