Qianjue Tech's $13.9M Funding Fuels Robot Revolution

Qianjue Technology is redefining robotics with a bold new vision that could reshape our understanding of automated systems.

On February 14, the startup announced it secured nearly RMB 100 million (approximately $13.9 million) in a pre-A++ extension funding round, backed by notable investors such as Vertex Ventures, Zhilu Capital, and InnoAngel Fund. This marks the second funding round for Qianjue in just two months, indicating strong investor confidence in its innovative approach to robotics and artificial intelligence.

Founded in 2023, Qianjue is focused on creating what it dubs an "embodied brain," leveraging embodied AI to enable robots to autonomously perceive, decide, and act within their environments. This is a significant departure from traditional robotics, which often relies on remote control or rule-based programming. The company aims to deploy this technology across various settings, including households and restaurants, where its robots can perform tasks such as cleaning, serving, and eldercare.

The novel technology at the heart of Qianjue's systems is its pure-vision spatial understanding solution. Instead of using LiDAR, Qianjue's robots model their surroundings and understand object relationships solely through visual perception. This approach could lower costs and reduce complexity, making robotics more accessible and versatile.

The modular architecture of Qianjue's "brain-inspired" ecosystem is another impressive feature. It separates intelligence into independently evolving modules, which include spatial perception, task planning, motion control, and fine manipulation. This flexibility allows for continuous improvement and adaptation of the robots, a crucial factor in a rapidly evolving industry.

Qianjue's ambitions don’t stop with their initial product line. By 2026, the company plans to accelerate commercialization, targeting over 100,000 connected devices by the end of that year. Such a scale would represent a significant leap in the integration of robotics into everyday life, especially in urban centers where labor shortages and aging populations create a growing demand for automated solutions.

The implications for supply chain managers and global manufacturers are profound. The rise of companies like Qianjue, which is part of a larger trend of innovation in China’s robotics sector, demonstrates a shift toward advanced automation that could disrupt traditional labor markets. As these robots become more capable and affordable, companies will need to reevaluate their sourcing and operational strategies.

Moreover, the Chinese government has been actively promoting AI and robotics through various subsidies and initiatives, which may further accelerate the growth of startups like Qianjue. Mandarin-language reporting indicates that local governments are keen on developing a competitive edge in this space, providing financial backing and resources that could amplify the impact of such companies in the global market.

In conclusion, Qianjue Technology's recent funding reflects not only the potential of its technology but also a broader trend in the Chinese robotics landscape. As competition heats up and the capabilities of these robots evolve, the implications for businesses sourcing from or competing with China will be significant. Companies must stay informed about these developments, as the next wave of automation could fundamentally alter not just supply chains but also consumer expectations and labor dynamics.

Sources

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