FCC bans new imports of foreign-made humanoids, robot dogs and solar inverters
On 28 July 2026 the US Federal Communications Commission added foreign-made humanoid robots, quadruped "robot dogs" and power inverters to its Covered List, banning the import and authorisation of new such devices on national-security grounds. The FCC said overseas-made devices could be remotely controlled, used for surveillance by foreign governments, or exploited in cyberattacks. The measure largely affects imports from China, which holds the majority of global market share in these categories. Existing devices already installed in US homes are unaffected, and exceptions may be granted where a device is found not to pose a risk.
Humanoids and robot dogs. Around 15,000 humanoid robots shipped worldwide in 2025, with China's two largest makers accounting for the bulk of shipments. Chinese robotics manufacturers such as Unitree Robotics and UBTECH Robotics are among the leading players in the humanoid and quadruped-robot categories now covered by the restrictions.
Solar inverters. Power inverters, which connect rooftop solar and other renewable systems to the grid, are far more widely used across US households. The measure affects Chinese inverter manufacturers including Sungrow, GoodWeDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, Ginlong Technologies (Solis) and GrowattDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →.
Wider context. The ban is the latest in a series of US actions against Chinese technology, following restrictions on HuaweiDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, a ban on new foreign-made consumer routers, the forced divestment of TikTok, and earlier measures against surveillance-equipment makers Hikvision and Dahua. Beijing rebuffed the FCC's move, with a Foreign Ministry spokesperson saying China would use "all measures necessary" to protect its businesses. Chinese Premier Xi Jinping is expected to meet President Donald Trump in Washington during a planned state visit in September 2026.
Read more: TechCrunch · FCC
