Intel asks FCC for waiver to buy foreign robots

Intel is requesting a waiver from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to acquire foreign robots, known as automated guided vehicles (AGVs), for use in its chip fabrication facilities. These AGVs transport sensitive silicon wafers, containers, and supplies necessary for producing advanced chips within the company's fabrication plants, or fabs.

Intel's concern stems from the potential prohibition of foreign-made robots after they were added to the FCC's Covered List. Bloomberg reports that Intel fears its AGVs would fall under this restriction, which could severely impact the U.S. chipmaking industry. AGVs are essential equipment for maintaining the cleanroom conditions required for various manufacturing processes within these fabs.

However, there are currently no suitable domestic alternatives available for these unique machines. Intel's existing fleet of AGVs necessitates ongoing maintenance, including software and firmware updates. If forced to source these AGVs from a local supplier, the company warns that the process would take years, potentially hindering the United States' chip manufacturing capabilities.

Major AGV suppliers are currently Japanese companies like Murata Machinery and Daifuku Co., as well as smaller businesses from South Korea and Taiwan. The reason why these foreign companies have not applied for conditional approval remains unclear. Netgear, a U.S.-based company, has already obtained a conditional approval, allowing it to continue selling its foreign-made routers.

Intel is requesting the FCC to issue a conditional waiver as a precautionary measure to ensure the continued operation of the affected AGVs. While Intel is the only company currently seeking this waiver, other chip manufacturers may require similar exemptions as they expand their U.S. fabs, such as TSMC, Samsung, and even Elon Musk's Terafab.

The FCC has previously imposed blanket bans on foreign-made products, affecting companies like DJI and TP-Link, which restricted their ability to introduce new products and release software updates. The agency has since lifted the software update ban, but still prohibits new products from being registered unless manufactured in the U.S.