In recent times, the technology landscape has witnessed a significant surge in interest surrounding the development of "embodied intelligence." This fascinating domain intersects two hot tracks: large models and roboticsThe urgency in innovation and investment continues to climb as companies strive to create what is being referred to as a "general brain" for robots, which will enable them to perform diverse tasks seamlessly across different industries.

A notable advancement in this sector was recently marked by the completion of a significant A-round funding of over 100 million yuan by Xiaoyu Zhizao, a company focused on the application of large model robotics in industrial settingsThis financing round was solely backed by the Beijing Information Industry Development Investment Fund, further fortifying the company’s position in the market.

This latest funding follows a previous successful seed round where Xiaoyu Zhizao received investments from major entities, including Xiaomi Group, Professor Wang Tianmiao, and the Beijing Academy of Artificial Intelligence

Notably, it highlights the company’s appeal within the "national team" of investors, signaling strong institutional confidence in its innovation trajectory.

Xiaoyu Zhizao aims to create a versatile "general brain" tailored specifically for robots to handle various tasks within industrial contextsBy leveraging an innovative approach that combines large models with manufacturing practices, the company aspires to facilitate the smart evolution of traditional industriesWith this newfound capital, Xiaoyu will be able to utilize Beijing's advantageous industrial ecosystem and policy framework to expedite its technological innovations and commercialization processes.

The interest surrounding the "general brain" domain is not restricted to ChinaOther notable ventures globally, such as Physical Intelligence in the United States, Skild AI from Carnegie Mellon University, and Covariant—founded by former OpenAI staff—are drawing significant attention and funding from prominent investors and firms, including Jeff Bezos, OpenAI, and SoftBank

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Similarly, domestic startups such as Lu Robot and Qianjue Technology are also emerging on the scene, indicating a broadening landscape ripe for investment and research.

Beyond capital infusion, Chinese cities like Beijing, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, and Chongqing are entering a competitive race regarding embodied intelligence robotics, propelled by multiple rounds of policy supportThis industry is rapidly gaining traction as the next big focus, akin to the burgeoning market for smart, connected electric vehicles.

The establishment of Xiaoyu Zhizao in January 2023 marks a significant milestone, as it's founded by a team hailing from Xiaomi—a tech titan in its own rightThe driving force behind Xiaoyu Zhizao, Qiao Zhongliang, is a recognized leader within Xiaomi, previously managing critical aspects of MIUI development, indicating a strong foundation of expertise and innovation.

Qiao Zhongliang's departure from Xiaomi came after a noteworthy tenure in which he meticulously observed the company's evolution from a startup to a tech powerhouse that has now diversified into various sectors, including automotive

He has surrounded himself with a talented team comprising experts from elite technology firms like Microsoft and Huawei, providing Xiaoyu with an invaluable competitive edge in attracting further financing.

Indeed, within just five months of its establishment, Xiaoyu Zhizao secured its initial pre-series A investments from both Xiaomi and influential angel investor entities affiliated with Professor Wang TianmiaoThis reflects a robust endorsement from established industry figures who see potential in the company's vision and capabilities.

Furthermore, the backing of esteemed institutions like the Beijing Academy of Artificial Intelligence underscores Xiaoyu’s strategic importance in the robotics landscapeNotably, Professor Wang Tianmiao and Dean Wang Zhongyuan have articulated their vision of a robust ecological framework for embodied intelligence, which is contingent upon creating a universal foundational model for robotic applications—a vision that Xiaoyu Zhizao is actively working to realize.

Xiaoyu Zhizao's flagship product, the "Xiaoyu Brain," aims to equip robots with the ability to autonomously perform tasks

Early this year, Qiao emphasized the challenges faced in embodying intelligence by encapsulating machine learning components but highlighted the potential of modular approaches, suggesting creating high-functioning units that can collectively provide enhanced capabilities.

The company has developed a suite of high-performing robotic solutions based on extensive simulations and cutting-edge reinforced learning techniquesBy employing a dynamic control model that ensures responsiveness and adaptability in real-time, they are addressing the various challenges that come with delicate industrial operationsThis holistic solution encompasses several modules, ensuring that robots can learn and optimize their functions autonomously, thereby continuously improving operational efficiency.

In July of this year, Xiaoyu Zhizao announced a strategic collaboration with Panasonic, a global leader in welding technology, focusing on the intelligent robotics sector for non-standard industrial applications

Through this partnership, both entities aim to enhance the accessibility and efficacy of robotic products tailored for welding processes.

Furthermore, Xiaoyu Zhizao has also spearheaded initiatives with other leading firms in the construction and engineering sectors, broadening their strategic footprint across various domains, including aerospace and shipbuildingTheir forward-looking strategy is targeted at creating a robust ecosystem through alliances with top-tier corporations across industry verticals, all in pursuit of modernizing China’s manufacturing landscape.

The excitement surrounding the embodied intelligence sector is palpable within major urban centers—namely Beijing, Shenzhen, and Chongqing—each carving out their niches in robotics innovationAccording to market forecasts, the humanoid robot space in China is projected to escalate to approximately 27.6 billion yuan this year and burgeon to 75 billion yuan by 2029, making it a focal point of governmental interest and investment.

In Beijing, for instance, the government has launched several measures to solidify its stance in the humanoid robotics domain, including the establishment of the Beijing Embodied Intelligence Robotics Innovation Center in collaboration with leading industry players

This facility serves as a melting pot of ideas and innovation, setting the stage for collaborative projects aimed at overcoming inherent technological hurdles within robotic functionalities.

Meanwhile, Shenzhen, known for its rich manufacturing ecosystem, is nurturing numerous investments into humanoid robotics initiatives, backed by sophisticated enterprises which are establishing research and development centers focusing on core robotic technologiesThe city has proclaimed its intent to be at the forefront of this innovation wave, emphasizing arms-linked cooperation between local authorities and private sectors.

In an intriguing development, Chongqing is now joining the race to carve out its space in the embodied intelligence landscape, establishing an investment framework aimed at lifting local startups engaged in roboticsThe city, traditionally a hub for automotive production, is now pivoting to integrate intelligent robotics to enhance its manufacturing capabilities.

The convergence of investment, innovation, and governmental support in cities like Chongqing will likely mirror the growth trajectories witnessed in Beijing and Shenzhen