FCC Updates Covered List To Include Foreign-Produced Advanced Robotic Devices And Power Inverters On National Security Grounds

Executive Summary

• What’s new: On July 28, 2026, the FCC updated its Covered List to include two new categories of foreign-produced devices — advanced robotic devices and power inverters — based on “national security determinations” by the executive branch finding that these devices pose an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security.
• Why it matters: Covered equipment in these two categories cannot receive FCC authorization unless the Department of War or Department of Homeland Security grants a “Conditional Approval.” This action — the third action taken by the FCC to target broad categories of products for restriction since December 2025 — is expected to have a significant effect on the U.S. market for covered robotic devices and power inverters.