Trends
Interview with Fa Zhang, partner at Poly Technologies: ‘AI investment favors top university graduates’
AI startups in China have the greatest innovation potential in software, as competing with established hardware giants is challenging.
Headline
AI startups in China have the greatest innovation potential in software, as competing with established hardware giants is challenging.
Context
Fa Zhang is a partner at Poly Technologies. Established in 1999, Poly Technologies is renowned for its focus on technology promotion and application services. The company is dedicated to advancing high-end manufacturing and cutting-edge technologies, including AI intelligent thermal management. Zhang’s expertise is evident in his work with companies like All Things New (Shanghai) Intelligent Network Technology and Infinigence AI , concentrating on AI+chip integration and generative AI software. His recent participation in an AI conference in Beijing has further fueled his interest in innovations such as humanoid AI and robotic chefs.
Evidence
Pending intelligence enrichment.
Analysis
Also read: Almost human: How close are we to perfecting humanoid AI? When choosing AI startups, we primarily focus on the team’s background and technical capabilities. Market potential in AI is still emerging, and the commercial landscape isn’t fully developed yet. Our goal is to elevate a startup’s technical depth before pushing forward with commercialisation. “AI’s commercialisation is still incomplete, so we concentrate on depth in innovation. Commercialising after achieving technical breakthroughs is a better approach.” The biggest opportunities lie in the software space. Competing with major hardware manufacturers is challenging for startups. If you’re not from an academic background and your funding dries up, it can be disastrous. Areas like AI software assistants, video production, and video generation tools are where I see the most potential for innovation.
Key Points
- In BTW’s exclusive interview, Fa Zhang shares that AI investment strongly favors startups founded by top university graduates.
- Fa Zhang reveals in BTW’s exclusive that Poly Technologies prioritises deep tech innovation in AI over immediate commercialisation.
Actions
Pending intelligence enrichment.
