The US-China technology rivalry has now extended to advanced robots. The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has added foreign-made advanced robots, including those from China, to its national security watchlist and imposed strict restrictions on their entry into the American market. The restrictions cover wireless-enabled humanoid robots weighing over 2 kilograms, quadruped robots, and all types of autonomous mobile robots.
However, there is one silver lining: robots currently approved and already in the US market are allowed to continue being used and sold. This ban specifically targets new foreign-made robots seeking new approvals, which could be a major blow to well-known Chinese robotics companies like Unitree.
US officials explained that the strict restrictions are due to risks posed by these robots, including potential cyber attacks, surveillance threats, data theft, and the possibility of remote control from abroad. China's authorities have strongly criticized this decision and warned they will respond if necessary, so the situation is expected to develop further in the coming time.
Ref: Technology Innovation
