Innovation

Xiaomi’s YU7 electric SUV has garnered over 240,000 pre-orders within 18 hours of launch, signaling a shift in China’s economic outlook. Defying expectations of a price war, Xiaomi focused on innovation and user experience with both the SU7 and YU7 models. Experts suggest Chinese consumers are willing to invest in domestic EVs that meet their needs and demonstrate quality, driving companies toward increased R&D investment. Ford CEO Jim Farley acknowledged China’s advanced EV technology, further highlighting Xiaomi’s potential as a major consumer brand in the automotive sector.

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, VAPORESSO launched “Innovation X” in Jakarta with a hypercar parade, kicking off “The Roar On Rush” world tour. The event showcased the XROS 5 and highlighted VAPORESSO’s focus on vaping innovation and user experience. The tour continues in Paris, London, and Las Vegas. VAPORESSO will also host online events in August, inviting users to explore technology and collaborate on future designs.

The AI industry faces a “Safety-Velocity Paradox” where rapid innovation clashes with responsible development. A public disagreement highlighted the tension between releasing cutting-edge models and ensuring transparency and safety through public system cards and detailed evaluations. While AI safety efforts exist, they often lack public visibility due to the pressure to accelerate development in the AGI race against competitors. Overcoming this paradox requires industry-wide standards for safety reporting, a cultural shift towards shared responsibility, and prioritizing ethical considerations alongside speed.

At Peking University’s 2025 commencement, YMTC Chief Scientist Huo Zongliang urged graduates to pursue foundational research and independent innovation. Reflecting on YMTC’s success in advancing China’s 3D NAND flash memory technology from its beginnings to a leading position, Huo highlighted the importance of perseverance and overcoming challenges. YMTC has achieved significant milestones, including developing China’s first 3D NAND flash memory and introducing proprietary architectures like Xtacking®, demonstrating a commitment to pushing storage technology boundaries.

Wheaton Precious Metals is relaunching its Future of Mining Challenge, offering $1 million to a cleantech venture revolutionizing water management in mining. The company seeks innovative solutions to boost operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Expressions of interest are due August 29, 2025. This initiative, in partnership with the University of British Columbia, aims to identify and commercialize groundbreaking technologies for a sustainable mining future.

At the Tianjin Summer Davos, Unitree Robotics CEO Xingxing Wang highlighted the robotics industry’s potential as the “next big thing,” positioning Unitree to capitalize on this trend. He credited Hangzhou’s business environment and the company’s clear goals for its rapid growth. From a one-man operation in 2016, Unitree now employs over 1,000 people and generates over 1 billion yuan in annual revenue, holding a strong patent portfolio with over 330 patents filed.

Foxconn Chairman Branden Cheng predicts AI will revolutionize not only industries like autonomous driving and cosmetics, but also everyday experiences. He believes AI will enhance the taste of Moutai and improve the effectiveness of cosmetics via increased precision, by replicating artisan techniques. Cheng sees AI as a tireless tool to improve efficiency and iteration in various tasks, replacing human labor in repetitive or inefficient processes.

Coherent Corp. will showcase its latest photonics innovations at Laser World of Photonics 2025 in Munich, June 24-27, 2025. Key highlights include a 600W excimer laser, new laser diodes, medical fiber lasers, and advancements in laser measurement. The company’s experts will also deliver keynote speeches and presentations on industry trends and challenges at the event.

Shenzhen University, a hub of innovation, is utilizing laser education projectors to enhance its learning environment. These projectors offer short-throw capabilities for interactive lessons, high-definition images with long lifespans, and eye-friendly, wide-angle viewing. This technology is transforming classrooms, supporting dynamic teaching, and providing clear, accessible presentations for all students.

At HDC 2025, the “HarmonyOS Era Partners” zone showcased young, independent developers creating innovative apps. These creators, from diverse backgrounds, are thriving due to the platform’s open access and focus on user connection. Success stories like “Light Countdown” and “Daily Coffee” highlight the ecosystem’s potential for fostering impactful and people-centric technology, driving growth through collaboration and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.