FCC equipment authorization: component rule
The 2026 Third Report and Order addresses a component route into otherwise barred equipment authorization.
The adopted rule
FCC 26-50, adopted July 22 and released July 23, 2026, addresses devices incorporating a logic-bearing hardware component produced by a Covered List entity when that device would be prohibited from authorization if the entity produced the whole device. The final rule became effective October 13, 2026. The order also addresses permissive changes and marketplace display of FCC IDs. FCC 26-50 original order
Component provision
The rule is tied to the entity, component definition, and counterfactual device prohibition. The component prohibition applies to producer-based listings and prospectively to new authorization applications, with treatment for pending applications. The FCC left broader component proposals open. Check the live Covered List and the operative CFR text for the device at issue. Current Covered List
Earlier authorizations
A separate FCC public notice sought comment on additional import and marketing prohibitions for certain previously authorized equipment. Treat that notice as a proposal, distinct from limits on new authorizations. FCC proposal