Devices on the Covered List need waivers to continue receiving software updates, the FCC Office of Engineering and Technology said in its waiver extension order on Friday.

“Under this waiver, all Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), UAS critical components, and routers produced in a foreign country that were authorized for use in the United States prior to these devices being added to the Covered List may at least until January 1, 2029, consistent with FCC rules, continue to receive software and firmware updates that mitigate harm to US consumers,” the FCC engineering office said.

The waiver covers “all software and firmware updates to ensure the continued functionality of the devices, such as those that patch vulnerabilities and facilitate compatibility with different operating systems.” The FCC engineering office said it “will, as soon as practicable, recommend to the full Commission considering codifying this waiver through a rulemaking.”

That means the waiver would become permanent, but the FCC could…