The Beyond Expo 2025 in Macao kicked off this morning with a compelling panel discussion on the rise of Asia’s tech giants. Entitled “The Next Global Top Tech Brands from Asia,” the session, moderated by Liu Yukun of Ifeng news, featured Wang Mengqiu, CEO of Zero Zero Robotics, and Carl Pei, CEO of Nothing.
The conversation began by tackling the challenge of managing and motivating young workforces. Pei emphasized the importance of providing his design team with creative autonomy and “some space to figure out the concept and strategy.” Shifting gears, Wang noted significant demographic shifts within the unmanned aerial vehicle industry. Pei added that Nothing’s average user base is around 26 years old.
When the conversation turned to artificial intelligence, Pei offered a contrarian view. He suggested that AI might not be the primary mode of interaction for people, arguing that the tech industry often treats it as a mere “function, like a fast consumer product” instead of exploring its broader potential.
Trade tensions also surfaced as a key concern. Wang admitted to worrying about the “Trump tariffs” on Chinese industry, revealing that Zero Zero Robotics had shelved product launches due to the uncertain climate. Pei, however, downplayed the impact on Nothing, noting that the US market represents only 2 percent of its share, with Europe and India being more significant.
[See more: Beyond Expo 2025 has opened in Macao]
Regarding the saturation of AI discussions, Pei quipped that “it’s very boring for everyone to talk about AI.” He advocated for a more nuanced approach, urging the sector to look beyond its immediate applications. On targeting niche markets, Pei stated Nothing’s focus is squarely on the next generation of consumers, rather than older demographics.
Securing investor confidence was another critical point. Wang stressed the importance of demonstrating progress to investors, who have contributed a substantial 600 million yuan to R&D. For aspiring entrepreneurs, Pei advised focusing on product development and overlooking the negativity within the sector. Wang encouraged pursuing work one loves “with all of one’s heart.”
Asked about standout products, Wang mentioned Osbopak and an unnamed printer, while Pei praised “Open AI’s memory” feature.
Beyond Expo 2025, now in its fourth year, is a prominent technology and innovation conference in Asia, running at the Venetian.
