Washington Expands Its Tech Restrictions: Foreign Robots and Power Converters Under National Security Scrutiny

The United States has expanded its measures aimed at strengthening the security of its critical infrastructure, after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced the inclusion of advanced robots and foreign-made power transformers on a list of devices subject to new regulatory restrictions.

The move was reported by Digital Trends, with the decision falling within the framework of security reviews that view certain network-connected devices as potential risks to cybersecurity and supply chains.

The decision covers mobile robots, such as humanoid and quadrupedal robots, as well as smart transformers used in power grids. Effective immediately, new models of these devices manufactured outside the United States will no longer be eligible for FCC certification, a prerequisite for marketing or importing them into the U.S. market, although specific exemptions may be granted following approvals from relevant security authorities.

The Commission emphasized that the new measures do not apply to devices already on the market or in use, and that models previously certified may continue to be sold.

The decision is part of a series of steps taken by Washington recently to tighten oversight of certain foreign technologies deemed relevant to protecting critical infrastructure and national security.