SenseTime has launched the Galaxy Project, a major initiative to scale domestic AI chip infrastructure in China. The company is teaming up with nearly 20 partners to build a complete system for domestically-produced AI computing power.
Yang Fan, SenseTime's co-founder and president of its Large Device Business Group, announced the project during a keynote titled 'Intelligent Transformation and Symbiosis.' He described the Galaxy Project as a closed loop that connects chip-level technology, ecosystem partnerships, and commercial deployment for domestically-produced AI computing power.
What the Galaxy Project Aims to Achieve
The Galaxy Project is designed to scale domestic AI chip infrastructure in China. According to the announcement, the project brings together nearly 20 partners to create a complete ecosystem for AI computing power that is produced within China.
Yang framed the timing around three converging trends, though specific details on these trends were not provided in the available sources. The project represents a significant push by SenseTime to reduce reliance on foreign chip technology and build a self-sufficient AI computing infrastructure.
Additional Partnerships and Agreements
Alongside the Galaxy Project, SenseTime signed a space computing agreement with satellite manufacturer Guoxing Aerospace. This deal expands SenseTime's reach into space-based computing applications.
The company also struck a research partnership with five institutions, including the Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory. This partnership is aimed at scientific computing applications, further broadening the scope of SenseTime's AI initiatives beyond traditional chip infrastructure.
Our Take: A Strategic Move for China's AI Independence
In our view, the Galaxy Project is a clear signal that SenseTime is doubling down on domestic AI chip production. By partnering with nearly 20 companies, SenseTime is not just building chips — it is building an entire ecosystem. This is a strategic move that aligns with China's broader push for technological self-reliance.
The space computing agreement with Guoxing Aerospace and the research partnerships with institutions like the Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory show that SenseTime is thinking beyond just hardware. The company is positioning itself as a leader in the full stack of AI computing, from chips to scientific applications.
To put it plainly, this is a long-term bet. Scaling domestic AI chip infrastructure is not easy, and it will take time. But if SenseTime can execute on the Galaxy Project, it could significantly reduce China's dependence on foreign chip technology and create a more resilient AI ecosystem.
