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Aligning with the newest route of I&T improvement outlined in the Chief Executive’s Policy Address – which requires accelerating AI development alongside the improvement of the Northern Metropolis and the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone (the Loop) – ASTRI has intensified its push for AI+ functions. This initiative integrates AI with patented applied sciences throughout fields such as the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, chips, imaging, and application-specific built-in circuits, delivering sensible options for real-world challenges.
ASTRI goals to leverage its function to drive cross-border innovation in AI, manufacturing, and digital well being, whereas accelerating commercialisation by strengthened IP (mental property) switch, trade partnerships, and versatile licensing fashions.
At the coronary heart of ASTRI’s imaginative and prescient is the creation of a “Cognitive City,” characterised by sustainability, resilience, and human-centricity. Building on the basis of a “Smart City,” Suen says: “The future is uncertain. We cannot afford to react; we must anticipate. Innovation is our compass. It gives us foresight and the courage to experiment.”
A Cognitive City, as envisaged by Suen, fosters belief by guaranteeing residents have clear visibility into who holds their information and how they profit from sharing it. “It integrates IoT data across multiple sources for holistic intelligence. It uses AI not just to optimise, but to analyse and learn across systems, enabling proactive and autonomous decisions,” he says. “Instead of alerts, it delivers real-time recommendations with speed and reliability, anticipating needs before they arise. This shift – from reactive to predictive, proactive, and autonomous – is what will define the cities of tomorrow.”
Because a Cognitive City calls for technological convergence, AI should be built-in throughout methods. “We call this AI+, in which AI is combined with IoT, robotics, chips, imaging, and more,” Suen provides. “It’s vital because no single technology can solve the complexity of urban challenges. It’s the synergy that creates transformation.”
AI+ is central to ASTRI’s technique, with functions spanning healthcare, finance, and good cities. “In healthcare, we’re advancing AI for diagnostics, medical imaging, and the Internet of Medical Things to improve patient outcomes. In finance, we’re developing AI solutions like large language models tailored for compliance, fraud detection, and customer service enhancements. For smart mobility, we’re pioneering technologies such as Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) for connected vehicles, smart traffic systems, and AI-driven infrastructure monitoring.”
Since its institution in 2000, ASTRI has remained at the forefront of I&T, efficiently transferring about 1,600 applied sciences to industries – demonstrating its capability to rework analysis into real-world options. It has secured almost 1,200 patents globally. Notably, ASTRI is the solely R&D establishment primarily based in Hong Kong to be ranked amongst the Top 60 international non-profit analysis establishments and authorities businesses with no consideration US utility patents in 2024, putting forty second with 27 patents.
Unique strengths
ASTRI’s core strengths lie in its capability to combine modern applied sciences – together with AI, IoT, communications, microelectronics, and robotics – to develop tailored sensible options. With a pointy concentrate on utilized analysis, it specialises in functions and commercialisation, distinguishing itself from universities and different analysis organisations.
Its management in IP – by high-quality patents and confirmed experience in technology switch – accelerates the journey from lab to market. ASTRI’s core R&D competence in numerous areas is grouped underneath 5 Technology Divisions: Advanced Electronic Components and Systems; Artificial Intelligence and Trust Technologies; Communications Technologies; IoT Sensing and AI Technologies; and Intelligent Perception and Control Technologies. “Our R&D excellence comes from world-class researchers and engineers delivering cutting-edge innovations. We play a unique super-connector role, positioned to link Chinese Mainland, the GBA, and international markets, fostering cross-border innovation,” Suen says.
ASTRI’s edge in IP commercialisation bridges the hole between R&D and market adoption. “We achieve this through close partnerships with industry stakeholders. Flexible licensing models and tailored agreements ensure our partners can maximise the value of our technologies. Our collaborations with private enterprises, public bodies, and universities drive technology adoption and real-world impact.” Suen notes. “Our IP strategy ensures that innovations are protected, commercialised, and scalable, contributing to both industrial upgrades and economic growth.”
A task in China’s I&T development
China’s fifteenth Five-Year Plan units out a imaginative and prescient of transformation, aiming to realize high-quality improvement and strengthen self-reliance in science and technology. At the coronary heart of this technique is a shift towards a extra refined, innovation-driven mannequin. The plan emphasises shifting the financial system up the worth chain by digitising, automating, and greening conventional industries, whereas fostering superior manufacturing, high-end technology, and trendy providers as new engines of development.
ASTRI’s dedication to advancing nationwide technology is obvious in its strategic concentrate on rising sectors. “We prioritise R&D in smart mobility, green energy, AI healthcare, and advanced manufacturing, while also investing in talent development initiatives such as the PhD work-study programme and summer internships to nurture world-class expertise,” Suen says. “By deepening global collaborations with Chinese Mainland and overseas stakeholders, we aim to establish ourselves as a leading force in contributing to Hong Kong’s position as an international innovation and technology hub.”