#China #Hangzhou #Tuya Smart #Robopoet #AI Commercialization

Tuya Smart Accelerates Commercialization of Physical AI with Robopoet Investment

In a significant move in the tech industry, Tuya Smart (NYSE: TUYA, HKEX: 2391) has made a strategic investment aimed at boosting the commercialization of physical AI technologies. This wave of innovation follows Tuya's recent injection of 100 million RMB into Robopoet's pre-A funding round. Alongside existing investors like Sequoia China and GSR Ventures, this investment underscores Tuya's commitment to enhancing its portfolio in the fast-evolving AI sector.

Implications of the Investment

David Chen, co-founder and CEO of Tuya Smart, noted that the timing of this investment is pivotal. Robopoet's flagship product, the Fuzozo, has already made waves by selling nearly 300,000 units domestically by June 2026. The collaboration between Tuya and Robopoet has roots tracing back to 2025, when Tuya began supporting their global AI cloud platform. This initiative has not only cultivated a robust set of emotional AI companions but also promoted their effectiveness in a competitive market.

“2026 is a landmark year for the mass commercialization of AI hardware,” Chen remarked. “As AI transitions from various models to real-world applications, AI hardware is emerging as a crucial link connecting technology and consumers.” This statement reflects a rapidly growing trend where intelligent devices, from companions to smart home solutions, are increasingly integrated into daily life.

Market Response and Product Adoption

The market's response to these innovative developments has been overwhelmingly positive. During China's largest online shopping event, the ‘618 Shopping Festival,’ the Fuzozo emerged as a top seller in its category, with 40,000 units sold on Tmall. Other AI toys supported by Tuya also thrived, showcasing the ecosystem's power—products like Walulu and the AOOMII Smart AI Companion Robot turned heads with impressive sales figures.

These achievements highlight the critical support Tuya has provided, from product innovation to market expansion. With a robust AI development platform in place, products can swiftly transition from conceptualization to mass production, a vital factor in today's fast-paced market.

Encouraging AI Innovation Through Advanced Technologies

The foundation of Tuya's strategy is built on a comprehensive full-stack AI toolkit designed to simplify processes for hardware developers. This includes proprietary technologies such as Personal Voice Activity Detection (PVAD) and the Physical AI Foundation V2.8. This appears to be part of a broader vision—Tuya aims to propel the synergy between AI hardware and consumer needs, fostering an environment ripe for innovation.

Future Goals and Global Vision

Looking forward, Tuya plans to continue expanding its global AI cloud platform capabilities, aiming to support emerging AI hardware innovators and the so-called “one-person company” model. The investment in Robopoet is not merely financial; it's indicative of Tuya's ambition to redefine its AI hardware ecosystem and to provide a sustainable growth model through collaboration and innovation.

In essence, Tuya Smart is not just investing in a product; it is investing in the future of AI hardware innovation, positioning itself at the forefront of this revolution and laying the groundwork for a world where AI seamlessly integrates into everyday life making it richer and more efficient for consumers.