US bans humanoid robots from China, citing 'unacceptable risks'

Summary

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission announced a sweeping ban on humanoid robots from China on Tuesday, citing national security concerns. The FCC determined that advanced robotic devices, including humanoids and animal-like quadrupeds, pose 'unacceptable risks' due to their ability to collect data that could be leveraged by foreign actors for surveillance, intelligence operations, or remote commandeering. The ban aligns with the Trump administration's broader initiative to restrict Chinese technology imports and boost domestic manufacturing.

Beyond humanoid robots, the ban also encompasses connected power inverters and datacenter equipment—technologies critical to renewable energy infrastructure and cloud computing. FCC officials warned that these devices could enable foreign actors to gather intelligence or compromise critical infrastructure. Chinese companies like EngineAI (whose T800 robots are pictured rolling off production lines in Zhengzhou), Sungrow Power Supply, and Huawei are among the manufacturers expected to be affected by the restrictions.

The restrictions apply only to new models not yet authorized for sale in the U.S., though the FCC retains authority to revoke existing authorizations if necessary. Administration officials framed the move as essential to 'economic security' and rebuilding independent U.S. supply chains in critical and emerging technologies. China's embassy in Washington rejected the decision, accusing the U.S. of 'smearing Chinese companies' and vowing to 'take all necessary measures in response to any action that causes material harm to its interests.'

• China has signaled it will retaliate, threatening countermeasures against U.S. technology interests