Qianjue Tech: The New Player in Full-Size Robotics

Qianjue Technology just reeled in nearly RMB 100 million ($13.9 million) in funding, signaling its ambition to reshape the robotics landscape in China.

Founded only last year, Qianjue has already attracted significant investment from notable backers including Vertex Ventures, Zhilu Capital, and InnoAngel Fund. This rapid financial backing reflects a growing confidence in the company’s vision of deploying full-size robots equipped with what they call an “embodied brain”—an innovative approach to robotic intelligence that distinguishes it from conventional models.

The startup focuses on developing robots that can autonomously execute perception-decision-action loops without human intervention or pre-programmed rules. This capability is particularly groundbreaking as it allows robots to navigate complex environments and perform tasks ranging from cleaning and serving to eldercare. By leveraging a pure-vision spatial understanding solution, Qianjue eliminates the need for traditional LiDAR sensors, instead utilizing visual perception to model indoor settings and the relationships between various objects.

This technology has practical applications in both household and restaurant environments, where the demand for automation continues to surge. As companies globally look to optimize labor costs and increase operational efficiency, the entry of Qianjue into this space is notable. The startup’s robots are currently being deployed in limited batches, signaling an agile approach to market testing and refinement.

What sets Qianjue apart is its modular “brain-inspired” architecture. By compartmentalizing intelligence into distinct modules—spatial perception, task planning, motion control, and fine manipulation—the company envisions a system that can evolve independently, enhancing each aspect of robotic functionality without a complete overhaul of the underlying system. This results in a more adaptive and scalable technology that could significantly lower development costs and time-to-market for new robotic applications.

Looking ahead, Qianjue plans to ramp up commercialization efforts, targeting the deployment of over 100,000 connected devices by the end of 2026. This ambitious goal underscores the competitive nature of the robotics market in China, where numerous players vie for a slice of the burgeoning demand for automation.

However, industry watchers should remain cautious. While Qianjue’s funding success is promising, the company will need to navigate the inherent challenges of scaling production and meeting consumer expectations. The robotics sector is notorious for high failure rates, and even well-capitalized startups can struggle with execution. Additionally, as Qianjue expands, pressure will mount to ensure that its technology does not just work in controlled environments but can adapt to the unpredictable nature of real-world applications.

For supply chain managers and investors with exposure to China, Qianjue’s rapid ascent reflects a broader trend in the country’s manufacturing ecosystem, where innovation is increasingly being driven by homegrown startups rather than established giants. Understanding the dynamics of these emerging players is crucial for making informed sourcing decisions and investment strategies.

In conclusion, Qianjue Technology stands at the forefront of a new wave of robotics innovation in China. Its focus on embodied AI and autonomous capabilities positions it to compete fiercely in an already crowded market. As the company works to scale its operations and refine its products, stakeholders should closely monitor its progress and the implications for the global supply chain landscape.

Sources

Embodied AI Startup Qianjue Tech Secures New Funding, Expands Into Full-Size Robots