US bans imports of foreign mobile and humanoid robots over security concerns

The United States Federal Communications Commission has introduced a ban on the importation of foreign-manufactured mobile, bipedal, and quadrupedal robots. Under the new regulations, future models of foreign moving robotics will require special authorization from federal agencies, such as the Department of Defense, prior to import approval.

The regulatory authority cited national security risks, including potential espionage, data theft, and cyberattacks targeting critical artificial intelligence infrastructure. The measure is also designed to reshore the manufacturing of key technologies to the United States. Chinese robotics manufacturers, including Unitree, are among those affected by the restriction.

Sources: Die Zeit, FAZ, ORF.