US government bans robot vacuums, including Roombas, from import

The US government has announced a ban on importing "advanced robotic devices," and as confirmed by FCC media relations director Katie Gorscak, the ban covers robot vacuum cleaners. Existing Roombas and already approved models are not affected, but future foreign robots must meet new requirements.

The ban is broader than initially thought, extending beyond humanoids and quadrupeds. It applies to any software-controlled robot that moves on the ground, weighs over 4.4 pounds (including its dock), can sense its environment, and has wireless connectivity. This includes robot lawnmowers, sidewalk delivery robots, and warehouse robots.

The FCC cites national security concerns, referencing an incident where a hacker accessed thousands of DJI robovacs due to poor security. However, the ban targets all foreign robot vacuum manufacturers, not just those with security issues. Most robovacs are designed and built outside the US.

Even before Roomba's bankruptcy, its robots were made by a Chinese company. Today, top brands like Roborock, Ecovacs, Dreame, Xiaomi, and Narwal are Chinese. Dyson also uses Chinese manufacturers. After bankruptcy, Roomba was acquired by Chinese contract manufacturer Picea.

To obtain a waiver, companies must prove their robots are made in the US. Even US-based Matic, which assembles robots in California, may need a waiver as it does not yet source 65% of components from the US. Foreign companies must commit to investing in US manufacturing.

The ban does not apply to existing robots, but it creates uncertainty for future imports. The FCC is not asking for additional security checks, only focusing on manufacturing location.