FCC Declares War on Suspicious Chinese Phone Parts
Published Date: 11/25/2025
Rule
Summary
The FCC is tightening rules to block certain communication devices that could threaten national security, especially those with modular transmitters. Starting December 26, 2025, companies can’t import or sell these risky devices anymore, and some previously approved gear will lose its green light. This change mainly affects manufacturers and sellers, aiming to keep our communications safe without causing big money headaches for small businesses.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Modular Transmitters Banned from Authorization
Starting December 26, 2025, the FCC prohibits equipment authorization for any modular transmitter that appears on the Covered List and for any product, host, or device that incorporates a modular transmitter that is covered equipment. The rule means devices using those covered modular transmitters cannot be authorized, imported, or marketed in the United States even if the transmitter previously had authorization.
Stops Import/Marketing Of Previously Allowed Gear
The FCC will limit some previously granted authorizations so that covered equipment authorized earlier can no longer be imported or marketed in the U.S.; this limitation takes effect under the new rulemaking process. The Commission says it will apply these limits prospectively to stop the flow of new covered devices into U.S. markets while allowing current users to keep operating the devices they already own.
Users Can Keep Using Existing Devices
The FCC will allow people and organizations to continue using covered devices that were authorized before the rule changes; the new process specifically prohibits only future importation and marketing, not the ongoing operation of devices already in use. The Commission framed this as a way to avoid forcing consumers and operators to remove or replace equipment already deployed in networks or homes.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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