The FCC has exercised its new authority to prohibit devices containing computer chips identified as national security threats. This regulatory move targets hardware components manufactured by companies on the agency's restricted list, effectively closing a loophole that previously allowed such technology to enter the market inside third-party products.
The agency identified the HiVision Hi3516CV610 UHD Smart Vision SoC as the first component to trigger this ban. This specific chip is designed to process raw camera sensor data for applications like home security cameras and dashcams. It often includes integrated facial detection algorithms and is frequently sold bundled with Sony sensors.
The FCC classifies the HiVision chip as a surveillance risk because HiVision operates as a subsidiary of Huawei. Huawei is currently designated as a national security threat by the US government and appears on the FCC's Covered List. The agency has not disclosed the specific consumer devices affected by this initial enforcement action.
