FCC Extends Software Update Deadline for Foreign-Made Routers and Drones to 2029

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has extended the deadline for software and firmware updates on previously authorized foreign-made Wi-Fi routers and drones from early 2027 to January 1, 2029. This decision, issued by the FCC’s Office of Engineering and Technology (OET), aims to mitigate national security risks while preventing these widely used devices from becoming vulnerable to hacking due to a lack of security patches. Initially, the cutoff dates were set for March 2027 for routers and January 2027 for drones. The extension allows both Class I and Class II permissive changes, which include vulnerability patches and compatibility updates, ensuring continued device functionality and consumer safety. The move follows pressure from tech industry groups arguing that abrupt update bans would harm public interest. While this waiver applies to existing devices, new foreign-made routers and drones remain banned unless they receive conditional approval from the Pentagon or Department of Homeland Security. Major brands like DJI and TP-Link have not secured such exemptions, whereas Netgear and Amazon’s eero have. The FCC plans to consider codifying this waiver through future rulemaking.