The film "Her" in 2013 is regarded as the first collision between technology and human emotion. Over the past decade, AI has gradually developed from the fantasy concept in sci-fi movies into our daily lives. From the rise of virtual assistants to the widespread application of AI hardware today, the rapid development of technology is reshaping our way of interacting with the world. AI is no longer just cold code, but has been given emotions and warmth through hardware carriers, becoming a partner, assistant, and even a friend in our lives. This evolution from software to hardware is not only a technological advancement but also a reflection of the integration of human emotional needs and technology.

With the rapid growth of the AI hardware market, we are seeing the formation of an entirely new ecosystem. From smart home devices to educational robots, from emotional companion robots to intelligent wearable devices, AI hardware is integrating into our lives in various forms. These devices are not just tools; they are becoming a part of our lives, accompanying us in growing, learning, entertaining, and even providing us with emotional support. This integration has not only changed our way of life but also brought us new business opportunities and social challenges.

In this rapidly developing AI era, what we need to think about is how the combination of AI and hardware will further reshape our lives? How will it affect our families, education, work, and social relationships? At the same time, as practitioners and entrepreneurs, how should we grasp this trend, explore its potential and meet the challenges that may arise? These questions require attentions not only from technical experts but also each one of us.

Regarding this background, we have specially invited three guests with profound backgrounds and unique insights in the field of AI. They are Mr, Guo Zhi, the founder of Ai Xiaoban, Mr. Ma Jun, an investor in the field of EAI, and Mr. Li Hengwen(Mike) an AI strategy and product consultant to discuss this topic together.

Guest Speeches（45mins）

• Mr. Guo：Introduction of his product-15mins
• Mike: The sustainable development of AI and hardware integration（TBD）-15mins
• Mr. Ma: The future of AI Interaction (TBD)-15mins

Panel discussion（45mins）

1. In 2024, we can see a wide range of AI + hardware interaction products in various forms, and their performance is also quite good so far in the market. What is your view towards this trend?（each guest）
2. What is the real need of users for the combination of AI and hardware? - Why is hardware needed?(Guo+Ma）
3. In the realm of AI interaction products, it's not hard to see that a key focus for products that stand out is the understanding of user needs and provide personalized experiences. What insights would Mike like to share? How personalized experiences important to the product. (Mike)
4. For those entrepreneurs who are considering to add AI applications to their hardware products or whom are exploring the field of AI interaction products, any suggestions you would like to give?（each guest）
5. What are the promising development and integration trends of AI and hardware in the future?（Ma+Mike）

About Startup Grind

Startup Grind is a global startup community headquartered in Silicon Valley. It is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs learn from each other, inspire one another, and exchange resources. We host events in over 600 cities and 125 countries, connecting a network of 3.5 million entrepreneurs. Every month, we invite the most outstanding founders, innovators, educators, and investors from the local area to share their personal stories and the lessons they have learned on their journey to building successful companies.

The Shenzhen chapter of Startup Grind was established in 2014. It is a startup community that has been steadily operated by a team of volunteers. With over 20,000 subscribers, we host one online or offline event per month on average, attracting more than 100 participants each time. Adhering to the vision of "rooted locally, connected globally," we not only gather and connect entrepreneurs in Shenzhen but also promote cooperation between international startup organizations in Berlin, Barcelona, Belgium, Sweden, and other places with Shenzhen, bringing new ideas and opportunities to them. In 2018 and 2019, we were honored as the "Most Cohesive Community in South China" by Huodongxing. In 2019, 2020, and 2023, we received the "Best Partner" award from Tencent Co-working Space. Our event content has been included in courses at Harvard Business School, and our community leader was awarded the "Lifetime Achievement Award" by Startup Grind in 2021.

Event information

• Date & Time: 15th March, Sat
• Address: 6/F, Block C, Huarun Landmark Building, Nanshan District, Shenzhen
• Participation: 50ppls

Event Schedule

• 2:00-2:30pm Registration
• 2:30-2:40pm Startup Grind introduction
• 2.40-3.30pm Guest speech
• 3:30-4:15pm Panel
• 4:10-5:00pm Afternoon tea, casual chat