FCC adds foreign-produced mobile robots to Covered List
The FCC added all foreign-produced advanced robotic devices, including humanoids and quadrupeds, to its Covered List, restricting new equipment authorisations unless the Department of War grants Conditional Approval.
Why it matters
The rule creates a new United States market-access gate for future foreign-produced humanoid, quadruped and other mobile-robot models while leaving previously authorised models unaffected.
Verified eventRegulatoryJul 28, 2026
Evidence notes
- The FCC defines advanced robotic devices as mobile robots including humanoids and quadrupeds, and the listing applies to foreign-produced devices regardless of producer nationality.
- Covered equipment cannot receive new FCC equipment authorisation; the restriction applies to new models, while previously authorised models remain unaffected.
- The Department of War may grant Conditional Approval for a device or class of devices, and federal-government purchase or use is unaffected.