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FCC Bans Foreign Robot Vacuums | Salt Lake City News
Description
Your Roomba could be a national security threat. The FCC has added smart home robots to its “Covered List,” banning new foreign-made models due to spying risks and supply chain vulnerabilities. These devices—robot vacuums, lawnmowers, pool cleaners—can collect sensitive data like audio, video, and home layouts. The FCC defines “advanced robotic devices” as self-navigating units over 4.4 pounds with docking stations. While existing devices remain legal and will get updates until January 2029, new imports from abroad are blocked unless manufacturers relocate production to the U.S. This follows a 2026 global hack of foreign robots and aims to boost American innovation, especially since major robot makers are based in China. Experts say this is just the start of a broader push to secure U.S. robotics infrastructure.
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