FCC Bans Chinese Robots and Power Inverters Over Security Risks

FCC Targets Chinese Hardware in National Security Crackdown

The Federal Communications Commission announced Tuesday it will prohibit imports of Chinese robots and power inverters, marking a significant escalation in U.S. efforts to secure critical technology infrastructure. The ban specifically targets humanoid and quadruped robots along with power inverters—components essential for operating AI data centers.

These products will now appear on a government list of equipment deemed to pose "unacceptable risk to the national security of the U.S. or the safety and security of U.S. persons." While the restriction technically applies to foreign-produced products regardless of manufacturer nationality, the policy is expected to disproportionately affect Chinese companies. Foreign manufacturers may still access the U.S. market through conditional approval processes.

Why it matters

Power inverters form a critical layer of the electrical infrastructure needed to run AI data centers, while advanced robots increasingly operate on networked systems. Securing these supply chains addresses vulnerabilities at the foundation of America's AI capabilities, not just the software layer where most policy attention has focused.

Security Vulnerabilities in Robotics

The administration's concerns center on the networked nature of modern robotics. Officials warn these systems could be exploited for surveillance of Americans, enhancement of foreign intelligence operations, or remote hijacking by hostile actors.

These fears gained credibility last year when researchers discovered China-based Unitree Robotics had pre-installed an apparent backdoor on its Go1 robot dogs. The vulnerability enabled surveillance of customers worldwide, according to the findings.

The Growing Robot Economy

Global robot deployment has more than doubled over the past decade, with annual installations now exceeding 500,000 units. China maintains a commanding lead in industrial robotics, operating more than 2 million robots in its factories—five times the U.S. total.

The power inverter ban addresses a different vulnerability. As these components become more prevalent in U.S. electrical grid infrastructure, the administration argues they create new attack surfaces for cyberattacks and supply chain manipulation.

Broader Technology Restrictions Ahead

The hardware restrictions arrive as the Trump administration weighs additional measures targeting Chinese software, particularly open-source AI models that have raised concerns among some policymakers. The dual focus on hardware and software reflects a comprehensive approach to technology security in the U.S.-China competition.

These details were first reported by Axios.