What The Tech: What a federal robot ban could mean for you
BY JAMEY TUCKER, Consumer Tech Reporter
A new federal restriction on foreign-produced robots may sound like something aimed only at futuristic humanoid machines and robotic dogs.
However, the government’s definition is broad enough to include some of the robots already cleaning floors and cutting grass. On July 28, the Federal Communications Commission added foreign-produced “advanced robotic devices” to its Covered List, effectively preventing new qualifying models from receiving the FCC authorization generally required before they can be imported or sold in the United States.
While the announcement focused heavily on humanoid and four-legged robots, the rules may also apply to many robot vacuums, autonomous lawnmowers and other connected machines that move along the ground.
What kinds of robots are covered?
The FCC generally defines an advanced robotic device as a mobile machine that:
• Weighs more than 4.4 pounds
• Moves or navigates along the ground
• Uses sensors to perceive its surroundings
• Connects to a wireless or communications network
• Uses software to control its movement, navigation or operation
That description can include more than the human-shaped robots commonly demonstrated at technology shows such as CES. Many robot vacuums use LiDAR, cameras, infrared sensors and other technology to navigate around furniture, avoid stairs and create maps of a home. LiDAR can be thought of as a robot’s eyes, although it does not operate exactly like a traditional camera. It uses laser pulses to measure distances and build a digital map of the surrounding area.
Robot lawnmowers use similar systems to identify obstacles, remain inside a designated area and find their way back to a charging station.
Why is the government concerned?
The FCC says foreign-produced connected robots could create national-security and cybersecurity risks because they may collect detailed information about homes, businesses, factories and sensitive locations. Depending on the model, a robot may contain cameras, microphones, mapping technology and
wireless connections. Federal officials warn that a security vulnerability could allow an unauthorized person, hacker or foreign government to access information collected by the robot or potentially take control of the machine.
That does not mean every foreign-made robot is secretly spying on its owner. The concern is that connected robots have the ability to collect and transmit increasingly detailed information about their surroundings.The same sensors that make a robot useful can also create a potential security risk.
Is the robot vacuum already in your home banned?
No.
The federal government is not ordering consumers to stop using robot vacuums, lawnmowers or other devices they already own. According to the FCC, previously authorized models can generally continue to be used and
sold. The new restriction primarily affects new foreign-produced models seeking FCC approval from this point forward.
Manufacturers may also request a conditional approval from the federal government. That process could allow certain foreign-produced devices to receive authorization if officials determine that the products do not pose an unacceptable national-security risk.
The FCC also retains authority over previously issued equipment authorizations, although the immediate action is primarily aimed at models that have not yet been approved for the U.S. market.
Could this affect robot vacuums and lawnmowers sold in stores? Possibly, although shoppers should not expect robot vacuums to suddenly disappear from shelves. Models that have already received authorization may remain available. The larger effect may be seen as manufacturers attempt to introduce new generations of foreign-produced robots.
Some future models could be delayed, denied authorization or redesigned to qualify for conditional approval. The restrictions could eventually result in fewer choices or higher prices, particularly if companies must shift manufacturing or make changes to their supply chains. Those consequences are possible, but they are not guaranteed.
The restrictions apply to robots produced in foreign countries, although Chinese manufacturers are expected to be affected most heavily because Chinese companies have become major players in humanoid robots, robotic vacuums and other consumer robotics products.
What does this mean for humanoid robots?
Humanoid robots have been among the biggest attractions at recent CES technology shows. Developers have demonstrated machines designed to work in warehouses, factories, stores and eventually homes. The new FCC action does not end the arrival of humanoid robots in the United States. American-made robots and foreign models receiving conditional approval can still move
forward. However, the restrictions could delay some foreign-produced humanoid robots from reaching U.S. businesses and consumers.
That could give American robotics companies additional time to develop competing products, but some technology experts warn that restricting access to less expensive foreign hardware could also slow innovation among U.S. companies that rely on imported robotic components.
Could the restrictions affect Christmas shopping?
The immediate effect on this year’s holiday shopping season may be limited because previously authorized products can still be sold. However, shoppers looking for the newest robot vacuum, robotic lawnmower or other autonomous device could eventually see fewer newly released foreign-made models. The bigger changes will likely happen over time as companies introduce new products and seek the federal authorization required to sell them in the United States.
For now, the robot already cleaning your floor is not going anywhere.
But the selection of robots available in stores could look very different in the years ahead.
