The Download: US robot restrictions, and ICE’s DNA grab
The US government has implemented a ban on foreign imports of advanced robots, signaling a shift toward protecting the domestic AI and robotics industry. Meanwhile, concerns grow over ICE's mass collection of DNA data and the challenges of monetizing AI investments.
Why it matters
This policy shift indicates that the US is moving toward aggressive protectionism in the emerging robotics and AI sectors to counter foreign competition.
This is today's edition of The Download , our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what's going on in the world of technology.
Humanoid robots usually elicit more cringe than awe: They stumble , kick children , and despite advances are still worse at using their hands than my toddler. It’s a nascent industry, and such robots are more commonly seen in viral videos than real workplaces or homes.
It was a surprise, then, when last week the Federal Trade Commission issued a sweeping ban on foreign imports of advanced robots, including humanoids, quadrupeds, and wheeled robots.
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