The administration of President Donald Trump announced new restrictions on the new Chinese robots in the United States after the Federal Communications Commission announced measures aimed at strengthening the security of the artificial intelligenceand protect the technology supply chain.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) the agency reported that the measure affects new models that have not yet been released in the U.S. market. It argued that these devices could pose vulnerabilities to critical infrastructure due to potential risks of supply disruptions, data theft, and cyberattacks.
New Chinese robots and the safety of artificial intelligence
According to the FCC, the accelerated growth of artificial intelligence this increases the need for a reliable supply chain for industrial robots, data centers, and energy systems.
The agency also noted that power inverters play an essential role in connecting renewable energy sources and storage systems to the electrical grid and the infrastructure used by data centers that support AI applications.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated that the institution will continue to take action to protect strategic supply chains and reduce risks to economic and national security.
Unitree appears among the most affected companies
One of the manufacturers that could feel the greatest impact is Unitree Robotics, a company considered one of the world’s leading suppliers of humanoid robots.
The company was recently added by the Pentagon to a list of companies allegedly linked to the Chinese military. Although Unitree maintains technological collaborations with Nvidia to integrate Blackwell processors into its robotic platforms, the company has stated that the data generated by these systems remains stored within the United States and that a large portion of its clients are in academia and research.
Washington tightens control over strategic technologies
US authorities argue that connected robots can collect large volumes of information through cameras, sensors and navigation systems, data that could become a target for intelligence activities or cyber espionage.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also warned that Chinese companies involved in artificial intelligence could face sanctions if they are found to have misused U.S. intellectual property.
Furthermore, Washington is trying to avoid a situation similar to that which occurred with rare earth minerals, a market where China maintains a dominant position and which it has used as an instrument of trade pressure in recent years.
It will also affect power inverters
The restrictions include new electrical inverters manufactured in China, essential equipment for integrating photovoltaic systems, batteries and other energy sources with electrical grids.
Several analysts believe that these devices will become increasingly important due to the expansion of data centers dedicated to the training and operation of artificial intelligence models.
The FCC indicated that it could grant exceptions to manufacturers from other countries, while retaining the power to review previously granted authorizations if it identifies risks to national security.
Source: Reuters
Photo: Shutterstock
