Xiaomi Group (小米, HK: 1810) set up an independent subsidiary dedicated to robotics on April 21, according to corporate registration information.
The new company, named Beijing Xiaomi Robotic Technology Co. Ltd and incorporated with a capital base of 50 million yuan (US$7.25 million), will be headed by Zeng Xuezhong, who also assumes the role of the firm’s legal representative.
cnrobopedia reported in early March that Xiaomi made Xu Duo as the director of its robotic business, who reports directly to Zeng.
The divestment of Xiaomi’s robotic unit to form a wholly-owned affiliate marks an important step by the tech giant toward becoming a versatile hardware manufacturer, ranging from smartphone to IoT devices, from cars to robots.
According to registration information, the new Xiaomi robotic company’s business scope consists of development of smart robots, AI application system integration services, AI basic resources and technology platform, production of miniature and specialized motor and accessories.
The robotic venture will be another wholly owned subsidiary of Xiaomi Group, in addition to Beijing Changshu Technology Co. Ltd. It has a capital base of 200 million yuan and spans the sale of miniature and specialized motor, the development, sale and installment of industrial robots, among others.
Xiaomi, which started out as a producer of smartphone and IoT gadget, in recent years has transitioned into an ecosystem builder, getting involved in everything from home appliance like robotic sweepers to cars and telecom equipment.
Xiaomi’s deepening foray into robotics is expected. Asked once if the group will concentrate its resources on robotics or car making, it responded that “adults don’t make choices,” an online witticism alluding to Xiaomi’s vision of branching out into and excelling in both sectors.
Xiaomi’s humanoid robot CyberOne and quadruped CyberDog made their debut in August 2021.
Besides, in its lighthouse factories, Xiaomi also used a large quantity of intelligent manufacturing equipment and technologies, fueling conjecture that the Xiaomi will further diversify into smart manufacturing moving forward.
