China Hi-Tech Fair highlights virtual reality and smart city solutions as start-ups focus on research, not robots

Technology projects focused on developing augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI) and smart city solutions drew the most attention at this year’s China Hi-Tech Fair, while last year’s favourites – robots and drones – faded from the spotlight.

The six-day fair, which began in Shenzhen on Wednesday and is in its 18th year, is touted as a showcase for technological innovation as the country shifts its focus from manufacturing to high-tech research.

Government-backed Shenzhen tech companies focusing on AR, VR and AI development, such as Realis VR Entertainment, Protruly Vision and Royole Corporation, had the most visibility at the fair, which showcases 3,000 exhibitors and 10,000 projects.

The fair also designated an area for “smart city” technology, where companies like ZTE and Huawei promoted smart city solutions for Chinese cities, especially second and third-tier ones, seeking necessary technology to pursue sustainable urbanisation.

At the opening of the fair senior officials, including Shenzhen Mayor Xu Qin, assistant Minister of Commerce Zhang Ji and academic Lu Yongxiang from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, highlighted innovation as core for the future development of China.

“Technological innovation is pivotal to strategic economic improvement and deep industrial reform,” Xu said. “More effort should be put into exploring how to utilise technological innovation to cultivate new industries, thus realising a sustainable and healthy development of the regional economy.”