Webinar to address FCC robotics restrictions for automation buyers

New FCC restrictions on robots

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently determined that specific foreign-made advanced robots pose a significant risk to the United States. These concerns are primarily rooted in cybersecurity threats and potential competitive disadvantages for domestic industries. As a result, the commission has moved to restrict the import of new models of these advanced robotic devices.

The restrictions specifically target advanced robotics, which include mobile robots and legged robots. These machines are increasingly used in warehouses and manufacturing environments where they interact with broader networks. By limiting these imports, the government aims to secure the nation's technological infrastructure from external vulnerabilities.

While the ruling creates a complex landscape for buyers, it also highlights a shift toward stricter oversight of connected systems. The FCC's decision is part of a broader effort to manage how foreign technology integrates into American commerce. Companies must now navigate these rules to ensure their automation plans remain compliant with federal law.

Navigating the new landscape

To help businesses navigate these changes, a webinar is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. ET. The session will feature leaders from Vecna Robotics, Locus Robotics, and the Association for Advancing Automation (A3). These experts will discuss the practical implications of the FCC's determination for companies currently considering robot purchases.

A major focus of the discussion will be how connected systems differ from traditional automation. While older machines might operate in isolation, modern robots often rely on constant data exchange and remote connectivity. The panelists will explain how these differences impact security, design, and the ongoing support required to keep systems running smoothly over time.

Attendees will also receive guidance on how to evaluate the long-term supportability of their robotics investments. Because the regulatory environment is shifting, buyers need to know if a chosen technology will remain viable and supported in the years to come. The webinar aims to provide a roadmap for making these high-stakes decisions with more confidence.

Impact on supply chains

The webinar will provide specific perspectives on strengthening supply chains in the face of new restrictions. Experts will share insights on what questions buyers should ask their technology providers to ensure resilience. This includes identifying which specific types of robots and companies are most affected by the recent FCC actions.

Beyond the immediate restrictions, the discussion will touch on other U.S. policies currently under consideration. This includes the potential impact of tariffs on the robotics industry. Understanding these overlapping policies is essential for companies trying to forecast costs and availability for their automation projects.

The event also aims to help attendees build acquisition and implementation strategies that can withstand competitive challenges. By tracking how the robotics ecosystem is reacting to these pressures, businesses can better position themselves. The goal is to move from reactive purchasing to a proactive strategy that accounts for geopolitical and regulatory trends.

Expert perspectives and goals

The panel includes high-level executives with deep experience in scaling robotics from research to commercial use. Karl Iagnemma, CEO of Vecna Robotics, brings experience from founding a driverless car software business that was later acquired. His background helps provide a perspective on how robotics companies scale within the U.S. market.

Rick Faulk, CEO of Locus Robotics, joins the panel with over 30 years of experience in technology and executive management. He will offer insights into the strategy and execution of warehouse automation. His experience with major technology firms provides a broad view of how large-scale systems are deployed and managed.

Aaron Prather from the Association for Advancing Automation will contribute market intelligence to the discussion. He focuses on transforming raw data into actionable insights for executive leadership. His role is to help the industry understand trends in R&D, standardization, and strategic planning as the regulatory landscape evolves.

Looking toward the future

The webinar is designed to help attendees stay aware of standards efforts that occur alongside regulatory changes. While the FCC provides rules on what can be imported, industry standards determine how these robots actually function and communicate. Staying informed on both fronts is critical for any company looking to integrate advanced robotics into their operations.

Participants will also be able to look at long-term trends in automation to see where the industry is headed. The session will address how the U.S. robotics industry is reacting to both domestic and international competitive challenges. This bird's-eye view is intended to help leaders make informed decisions about their technology roadmap.

The live broadcast will allow for a Q&A session where attendees can ask specific questions about their own situations. For those who cannot attend the live event, the webinar will be available on demand for registrants. This ensures that a wide range of automation buyers can access this information to prepare for the changing regulatory environment.