Misryoum reports the US is extending software and firmware updates for certain banned drones and routers, with support slated until 2029.
A new window is opening for some devices previously barred in the US: certain foreign-made drones and routers can still receive software and firmware updates until 2029.
Misryoum reports that the FCC’s Office of Engineering and Technology announced an extension on May 8. allowing affected uncrewed aircraft systems and related components. along with specific routers. to get updates intended to reduce potential harm to consumers.. The timeline stretches to January 1, 2029, pushing the deadline out by about two years compared with the earlier cutoff.
This matters because these updates can help ensure existing hardware remains functional while regulators continue to manage security risks. It also signals that enforcement timelines may stay flexible when public-interest arguments can be made.
The FCC’s move builds on a sequence of prior actions.. In December 2025, the commission added drone-related communications equipment and services to its Covered List over national security concerns.. Later. routers manufactured outside the US were also brought into the same category. though an exception was previously granted to keep updates going at least through March 1. 2027.
In this latest notice, the FCC argues that “special circumstances” justify extending the waiver of prohibitions. The reasoning, as presented by Misryoum, centers on serving the public interest while mitigating potential risks through continued patching.
One key takeaway is that the policy doesn’t necessarily mean the bans disappear. Instead, it suggests a transition approach: keep critical mitigations flowing for devices already in the field rather than cutting them off abruptly.
While the update extension may reflect regulatory strategy, it may also reflect industry pressure.. Misryoum notes that trade stakeholders have pushed for longer support windows and additional clarity about which products fall under the affected scope. along with more guidance aimed at improving transparency for manufacturers.
Misryoum’s bottom line: for users relying on certain foreign-made drones and routers. the extended update period could translate into continued protection and fewer immediate disruptions.. For the wider tech ecosystem, it highlights how national-security rules can evolve into longer, phased compliance timelines.
In the end, allowing updates until 2029 underscores a pragmatic reality for consumers and businesses: digital security doesn’t just depend on rules on paper, but on whether patching continues to reach devices that people already own.