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FCC Bans Drone Maker's Latest Gadget
22 Aug
Summary
- FCC reversed approval for HoverAir's Versa vlogging camera.
- Company attempted to circumvent foreign drone ban with modular design.
- FCC cites Versa as a prohibited UAS component violating US law.
HoverAir, an imprint of China's Zero Zero Robotics, has faced a significant setback as the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has banned its Versa vlogging camera from the American market. The FCC reversed its erroneously granted certification for the Versa, citing it as a prohibited unmanned aerial system (UAS) critical component produced in a foreign country.
Initially, HoverAir attempted to navigate the FCC's foreign drone ban by marketing the Versa camera separately from its optional drone accessory, the Flight Kit. This piecemeal design was intended to avoid individual FCC ID requirements. However, the FCC deemed this approach an illegal circumvention of US law.
The agency has directed HoverAir to immediately cease all marketing and sales activities in the United States. Furthermore, the FCC is considering additional actions against HoverAir for alleged willful violation of its rules and is reinforcing due diligence among certification bodies.
Despite the US ban, HoverAir plans to proceed with the Versa's release in other international markets. The device has already garnered substantial crowdfunding, though the full extent of US-based contributions remains unclear. The Versa boasts impressive specifications, including 4K60 video recording and a Type 1/1.3 image sensor.
