Professor Xiang Zhang, President of HKU delivers the opening.
The University of Hong Kong (HKU), together with GETECH and TCL, announced the establishment of a joint laboratory focusing on Industrial Artificial Intelligence (AI) on 16 April. This collaboration aims to drive cutting-edge research and development, bringing transformative changes to industrial sectors through innovative AI technologies.
The signing ceremony was held on the HKU campus, attended by Professor Xiang Zhang, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKU, and Mr Dongsheng Li, Chairman of TCL. Other guests included Professor Max Shen, Vice President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research); Professor Stephanie Ma, Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation); Mr Jun He, Vice President of TCL Industrial and CEO of GETECH.
The joint laboratory signifies a strategic partnership that combines the research excellence of HKU, the advanced technological capabilities of GETECH, and the innovation-driven mindset of TCL in consumer electronics. This collaboration is poised to revolutionise industrial processes by utilising Industrial AI to address key challenges related to efficiency, productivity, and optimisation. Through this joint effort, the laboratory aims to become a hub for groundbreaking research and practical applications, helping industries harness the transformative power of AI technologies.
Professor Max Shen emphasised the importance of academia-industry collaborations, he believes that the partnership bridges the gap between academic research and industry needs, offering innovative solutions to address real-world challenges. Significant advancements in Industrial AI are anticipated, which will not only enhance industrial practices but also contribute to sustainable economic growth.
About TCL/GETECH
TCL is a globally competitive technology manufacturing group. Through its two industry companies, TCL Industrial and TCL Technology, it strategically focuses on core sectors such as smart terminals, semiconductor displays, and new energy photovoltaics, achieving a leading market position worldwide. Founded in 1981, TCL operates manufacturing and R&D centers worldwide and provides products and services in over 160 countries. GE Tech, strategically incubated by TCL Industrial in 2018, specializes in AI solutions in manufacturing. It has received significant funding, including a 100-million-yuan Series A financing in 2020 and additional Series B financing in 2022 from major investors such as the SAIC Strategic Direct Investment Fund and Yuecai Fund. Additionally, it completed a Series C financing round in 2024, amounting to hundreds of millions of yuan, with participation from several renowned investment institutions such as Optical Valley Financial Holdings, Optics Valley Industrial Investment, and Jiaxing Nanhu Innovation.
About Versitech Limited
Versitech Limited is the commercial arm of HKU. It was established in 1994 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the University and is incorporated as a non-profit company with prominent business people on its Board of Management. Versitech negotiates, executes and manages commercial business contracts and agreements on behalf of the University. To serve business and community needs, Versitech undertakes the commercialisation of HKU innovations and technologies through licensing, the creation of start-ups or collaboration, and engages in contract research and consulting in conjunction with HKU researchers. Website: https://www.versitech.hku.hk.
