On July 28, the US government announced a ban on the import of foreign-made advanced robotics equipment and networked power inverters.

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) updated its "Covered List" that same day, formally adding foreign-produced "advanced robotics equipment"—including humanoid and quadruped robots—alongside networked power inverters to the list of items prohibited from import and sale. The FCC stated in a release that these devices "could create supply chain vulnerabilities that impact the US economy and national security, and pose cybersecurity risks threatening critical infrastructure."

This measure took effect immediately upon its announcement, but applies only to new models not yet on the US market. Existing devices that have already received sales authorization are not affected for now. However, the FCC retains the authority to revoke sales permits for previously authorized models. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that the FCC is expected to exempt suppliers from many other countries, in a similar manner to its previous restrictions on drones and routers from a specific nation.

Analysts predict that humanoid robots equipped with artificial intelligence "brains" will see widespread application in both consumer and industrial sectors. This US action comes during a period of rapid expansion in data center construction, leading to an increasing reliance on a stable and reliable supply of power inverters. Some views suggest the ban is intended to ensure an "independent and secure supply chain" for the US in emerging technology fields and to bring critical manufacturing back to the country. Earlier, the US Congress had already passed a bill restricting the Department of Defense from purchasing or using humanoid robotic systems associated with a particular nation.

In response to the US move, experts have criticized the policy as "counterproductive, undermining its own foundation." Some analysis points out that the US is currently facing significant problems in its energy system, with insufficient electricity support to sustain AI development. Rejecting cost-effective foreign products could drive up electricity costs and slow down the progress of AI advancement.