US bans foreign-made humanoid robots, targeting China over national security - The Economic Times
The latest US ban could also potentially impact collaborations between US and Chinese technology companies, said Lian Jye Su, a chief analyst at Omdia.
Key takeaways
- 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.
The latest US ban could also potentially impact collaborations between US and Chinese technology companies, said Lian Jye Su, a chief analyst at Omdia.
Nvidia, for example, in June revealed a humanoid robot reference design which uses the humanoid chassis of Chinese robot maker Unitree.
The Pentagon recently placed Unitree alongside several major Chinese technology companies on its list of firms that it said have ties to or aid the Chinese military, a claim that Beijing said it "firmly opposes." Add ET Logo as a Reliable and Trusted News Source
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