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Popular robot vacuum cleaners face ban over terrifying national security fears

Popular robot vacuum brands face a US import ban under strict new national security rules, forcing tech giants to move manufacturing to launch future models

[Popular household gadgets, including robot vacuum cleaners, could be banned from being imported to the US]

Popular household gadgets, including robot vacuum cleaners, could be banned from being imported to the US(Image: Getty Images)

Popular household gadgets such as robot vacuum cleaners and automated lawnmowers could soon be banned from being imported to the US over fears they pose a threat to national security. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has unveiled strict new measures targeting foreign-made technology under the Trump administration.

The drastic policy shift stems from deep-seated fears over Chinese spies and potential sabotage. According to the FCC, "foreign-produced advanced robotic devices could be weaponised to directly harm U.S. national security and U.S. persons."

While the initial focus centred on humanoid robots, the crackdown covers a broader category of items classified as "advanced robotic devices."

[The FCC has unveiled strict new measures targeting foreign-made technology such as automated lawnmowers]

The FCC has unveiled strict new measures targeting foreign-made technology such as automated lawnmowers(Image: AFP/Getty Images)

Under the rules, any new foreign-manufactured robot capable of ground movement, navigation, or obstacle avoidance faces a ban unless manufacturers receive an exemption.

The regulatory framework applies to any device where the combined weight of the machine and its docking station exceeds 4.4lbs, according to technology news site Tom's Guide.

It also covers gadgets featuring local or remote software, including AI, environmental sensors and wireless connectivity such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular capabilities.

[Existing models already approved and sold in the US will remain on shop shelves]

Existing models already approved and sold in the US will remain on shop shelves(Image: Getty)

Despite the alarming national security warnings, reports suggest the regulator's main focus is shifting manufacturing over to home soil rather than examining technical issues.

The FCC is reportedly prioritising details regarding where products are designed, built and tested, while pushing firms to commit to domestic US production.

The rules mean existing models already approved and sold in the US will remain on shop shelves and current owners will not face having devices seized.

However, major tech brands, including Roborock, Ecovacs, Dreame and Roomba, that rely heavily on foreign manufacturing hubs like China face major hurdles launching future models without approval.

Industry giants have responded to the sudden regulatory shift, reassuring current customers while scrambling to clarify how future product lines will be affected.

A spokesperson for Anker Innovations said: "We are aware of the FCC's recent update. Based on our current understanding, the new rule does not affect the continued availability, use or support of products we currently sell in the United States.

"Those products remain available and will continue to receive updates and customer support. Like others across the industry, we are seeking further clarity on how the rule will be applied to future products, and we will keep our customers informed.

"We remain committed to complying with all regulatory requirements in every market where we operate."

Makers of the automated Navimow lawnmower also confirmed their current products remains safe.

Segway Navimow said: "The ban does not affect the sales, service, or continued use of existing products. We are closely monitoring policy developments and evaluating compliance pathways for future products, including the Department of Defense's 'Conditional Approval' process."

Meanwhile, iRobot, the brand behind the market-leading Roomba vacuum, confirmed it is in discussions with officials.

An iRobot spokesperson said: "We are aware of the FCC's recent action and are working with them to better understand its implementation and potential impact."

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