FCC Restricts Imports of Foreign Power Inverters and Robotic Devices

The FCC has added new categories of foreign-produced power inverters and advanced robotic devices to its covered equipment import-restriction list, per a Covington & Burling regulatory alert. Under the covered-list regime, equipment on the list generally cannot be imported or marketed in the U.S. without FCC authorization. The alert indicates expansions that catch a broader range of robotic devices, not just a narrow class. Overseas buyers should verify whether specific robot SKUs they intend to import fall within the newly restricted categories before placing orders. Confirm with the manufacturer whether the device has an FCC equipment authorization on file, and request documentation up front to avoid customs holds or refused entry into the U.S. market.