The US Federal Communications Commission has added foreign-made advanced mobile robots to its Covered List, a move that also captures robot vacuum cleaners despite the policy appearing chiefly aimed at humanoid and quadruped robots. Existing vacuums will remain available and continue working, but new overseas-made models may be unable to obtain the FCC approval needed for sale in the United States, potentially reducing future choice in the market.

The rule takes effect immediately and applies to robots with autonomous movement, environmental sensors, network connections and relevant software; it could also affect robotic pool cleaners and lawn mowers. Officials cite security concerns over connected devices’ cameras, sensors and potential vulnerability to cyber-attacks, although the article notes that robot vacuums generally map homes rather than stream live video. Connected vehicles, aircraft, rail vehicles, underwater vehicles and stationary robots are excluded.