A new Federal Communications Commission order goes far, far beyond banning just humanoid robots, and will leave Apple Home users with fewer new autonomous robot vacuums to choose from.
A robot vacuum in Apple Home
A robot vacuum in Apple HomeThe FCC added foreign-produced “advanced robotic devices” to its Covered List on July 28, citing surveillance, remote-control and supply-chain risks. Covered devices can’t receive new FCC equipment authorizations unless the Department of War grants a Conditional Approval.
The ban goes way past humanoid robots. It also covers robotic lawn mowers, robot vacuums, pool cleaners, and other autonomous home robots.
Previously authorized robot vacuums aren’t being banned, and consumers can continue using devices they already own. The change instead creates a new obstacle for manufacturers seeking to introduce qualifying models in the United States.