Chinese AI startups are pouring billions into « world models, » a category of AI designed to understand how the physical world works. Chinese robotics startups raised roughly $5.6 billion through 176 deals by mid-May 2026, already exceeding the total raised across all of 2025. The broader AI startup ecosystem pulled in over $16 billion in Q1 2026 alone. Notable funding rounds include Shengshu raising over $290 million, Manifold AI accumulating nearly $148 million, and Striding AI announcing a nearly $100 million angel round. AI Robotics and X Square Robot were both valued at over $2.9 billion in their 2026 funding rounds.
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