FCC Blocks New Foreign-Produced Robots and Power Inverters Over Cyber Risks

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) added foreign-produced mobile robots and networked power inverters to its Covered List on July 28. The move generally prevents new models from receiving the equipment authorization required for import, marketing, or sale in the US. Previously authorized models can still be sold, and devices people already own are unaffected. Federal purchases and use

The article reports that the FCC has added foreign-produced mobile robots and networked power inverters to its Covered List, blocking new models from receiving equipment authorization for import, marketing, or sale in the U.S. due to cyber and supply-chain risks.[1][2] Existing authorized devices can still be sold and used, and a waiver allows security and compatibility firmware updates through at least 2029.[2] From a RealGround perspective, this highlights systemic AI supply chain risk: connected robots and inverter-based grid components can be remotely accessed, manipulated, or used for surveillance or disruption, so organizations relying on such equipment need formal supplier risk assessments, SBOM visibility, and contingency plans for future regulatory or security-driven cutoffs. It also implies that critical infrastructure operators and enterprises should proactively evaluate and harden their dependency on foreign-made connected devices, integrating FCC designations and vulnerability research (e.g., SUN:DOWN and UniPwn) into their AI security readiness and procurement policies.[1][2]