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According to Techinformed, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is moving to tighten the authorization process for radiofrequency devices. The agency intends to close specific gaps that currently allow restricted technology to reach American consumers through embedded components, software updates, imports, or various online marketplaces.
New requirements for hardware and software transparency
The FCC is scheduled to consider draft equipment-authorization rules during an open meeting on July 22. A primary focus of these regulations involves the potential requirement for manufacturers to submit formal records known as Software Bills of Materials (SBOMs) and Hardware Bills of Materials (HBOMs). The agency defines SBOMs as comprehensive records of software and firmware components, while HBOMs identify specific hardware parts along with their production origins.
The proposed order seeks to eliminate what the FCC describes as the "component part loophole." This would prohibit the authorization of any device containing logic-bearing hardware produced by entities on the government's Covered List. Furthermore, the rules may classify online marketplaces as marketers, requiring them to clearly display correct FCC IDs for all certified products at the point of sale.
Industry concerns over costs and logistics
While the commission aims to protect critical infrastructure from remote access and data exploitation, industry groups have voiced significant concerns regarding the feasibility of these mandates. The CTIA, representing wireless carriers and manufacturers, warned that sweeping component parts into authorization processes would create numerous practical hurdles for businesses.
- The Commercial Drone Alliance noted that drones contain hundreds of individual components, making source tracing extremely difficult.
- Manufacturers argued they cannot reasonably certify compliance when supplier disclosures are beyond their direct control.
- The Consumer Technology Association warned that requiring third-party certification for certain equipment would drastically increase costs and delays.
- Industry experts suggest that replacing restricted components with approved alternatives may lead to higher prices throughout the supply chain.
Future of component-origin reporting
The FCC's further notice of proposed rulemaking will also reopen discussions regarding the cost and burden of mandatory component-origin reporting. The agency is currently evaluating whether certification applicants should be required to provide deeper documentation on imports and software relationships. If approved, these rules represent a significant shift toward granular oversight of the global electronics supply chain.