FCC adds foreign-made robot vacuums to Covered List, halting new approvals
The Federal Communications Commission placed certain foreign-produced robotic vacuum cleaners on its updated Covered List, preventing future FCC authorizations due to national security and cybersecurity concerns, while existing models remain unaffected.
The Federal Communications Commission announced that several foreign-manufactured robotic vacuum cleaners are now subject to its revised Covered List, which bars new equipment authorizations for devices deemed a risk to U.S. critical infrastructure. The rule, adopted on Tuesday, targets advanced robotic devices that use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or cellular connections for navigation and obstacle avoidance.
The agency said the restriction applies only to newly authorized models; devices already approved may continue to be sold, imported and used. > "This action does not impact a consumer’s continued use of devices they previously acquired," an FCC spokesperson told Fox Business.
Major brands that sell robot vacuums in the United States, including iRobot, SharkNinja, Dyson, Samsung and LG, typically manufacture the products in China, Vietnam, Malaysia or Indonesia. iRobot responded that it is working with the FCC to understand the implementation and potential impact, adding that it remains committed to its customers.
Under the new definition, many household cleaners qualify as "advanced robotic devices" because they weigh more than 4.4 pounds, operate near humans and rely on firmware, AI models or sensors for autonomous navigation. The rule does not prohibit retailers from continuing to sell or market models that received prior FCC approval.