FCC clarifies foreign router ban applies to portable Wi-Fi hotspots

The Federal Communications Commission has clarified that its sweeping ban on foreign-made consumer routers also covers portable hotspot devices. The agency added the clarification to a frequently asked questions document this week. Under the updated FAQ, consumer-grade portable or mobile MiFi and hotspot devices for residential use fall under the ban. The FCC explicitly exempted mobile phones with hotspot features. Companies making consumer hotspots will need an exemption from the government to import and sell future hotspot models that have not previously been approved When the FCC announced the ban last month, it defined routers broadly as consumer-grade networking devices primarily intended for residential use that can be installed Earlier versions of the FAQ had not specifically addressed whether portable hotspot devices were covered, though cellphones with mobile hotspot features were exempt.