Trump administration bans new Chinese humanoid robots, to protect US AI buildout

• The Trump administration announced on July 28 2026 that the Federal Communications Commission will bar imports of new Chinese humanoid and quadruped robots, as well as related power inverters, citing national‑security risks to the U.S.
• AI build‑out and targeting firms such as Unitree that hold a large share of the global market.
• In the aviation sector, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines joined Southwest in prohibiting human‑like robotic devices from aircraft cabins and checked baggage, a policy rolled out in late June and early July to address safety concerns over heavy‑duty batteries.
• Meanwhile, Chinese automaker BYD confirmed it will unveil its first humanoid robot in August at a “Di Space” venue, planning an open platform and eventual deployment of robot sales advisors in its stores.
• On the education front, a rural New York school district paused its plan to install a Realbotix humanoid robot in classrooms after state officials, teachers and community members raised privacy and safety objections.

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