A new federal restriction on foreign-produced robots may affect the availability of robot vacuums, autonomous lawnmowers, and other connected machines in the United States. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has added foreign-produced “advanced robotic devices” to its Covered List, effectively preventing new qualifying models from receiving the FCC authorization required before they can be imported or sold in the US.
What kinds of robots are covered?
The FCC defines an advanced robotic device as a mobile machine that weighs more than 4.4 pounds, moves or navigates along the ground, uses sensors to perceive its surroundings, connects to a wireless or communications network, and uses software to control its movement, navigation, or operation. This description can include more than just humanoid robots, such as robot vacuums and lawnmowers that use sensors and software to navigate and operate.
Many robot vacuums use LiDAR, cameras, infrared sensors, and other technology to navigate around furniture, avoid stairs, and create maps of a home. Similarly, robot lawnmowers use similar systems to identify obstacles, remain inside a designated area, and find their way back to a charging station.
Why is the government concerned?
The FCC is concerned that foreign-produced connected robots could create national-security and cybersecurity risks because they may collect detailed information about homes, businesses, factories, and sensitive locations. Depending on the model, a robot may contain cameras, microphones, mapping technology, and wireless connections, which could allow an unauthorized person, hacker, or foreign government to access information collected by the robot or potentially take control of the machine.
The federal government is not ordering consumers to stop using robot vacuums, lawnmowers, or other devices they already own. Previously authorized models can generally continue to be used and sold. The new restriction primarily affects new foreign-produced models seeking FCC approval from this point forward.
Manufacturers may also request a conditional approval from the federal government, which could allow certain foreign-produced devices to receive authorization if officials determine that the products do not pose an unacceptable national-security risk.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
