FCC Bars New Chinese Humanoid Robots and Power Inverters Over Security Fears

The Federal Communications Commission voted July 28, 2026, to add foreign-produced humanoid robots and power inverters to its Covered List, banning new imports and sales of Chinese-made devices in both categories over national security concerns. The action does not affect equipment already purchased by U.S. customers.

National Security Rationale

The FCC cited concerns that networked robotic systems create exploitable vulnerabilities. "The networked capabilities of advanced robotic systems create extensive vulnerabilities and vectors for attacks that can manipulate the data and physical operation of the advanced robotic system," the agency stated in its notice.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr framed the decision as part of a coordinated national security effort. "Following President Trump's leadership, the FCC will continue to do our part to secure America's critical supply chains and, with today's action, the FCC is acting in lockstep with our national security agencies to do just that," Carr said.

Market Impact

The robotics restriction is expected to hit Chinese manufacturer Unitree particularly hard. According to Counterpoint Research, the company holds just under a fifth of the global humanoid robot market share, making it one of the most significant players affected by the new rules.

Power inverters, which convert electricity between different forms and are critical for solar installations and grid infrastructure, represent another substantial target. The category has seen heavy Chinese manufacturing presence.

Broader Campaign

This action extends an aggressive push by the FCC under Carr to reduce Chinese technology footprint in U.S. critical infrastructure. Previous measures have banned Chinese-manufactured drones including DJI products, restricted consumer routers from certain vendors, and barred state-backed carriers China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom from U.S. networks.

Separate Military Restrictions

A separate House defense bill addresses Pentagon-specific restrictions on humanoid robots linked to China, Russia, and Iran. That legislative action is distinct from the FCC's Covered List designation, which governs import and sale approvals rather than military procurement policy.

Strategic Implications

The ban signals escalating U.S.-China competition in AI and robotics. By targeting both advanced robotics and power infrastructure components, Washington aims to secure its energy grid and AI development from potential foreign surveillance, data exfiltration, and remote sabotage while supporting domestic manufacturing efforts.