Qualcomm has confirmed plans to invest $40m in four Chinese firms. The latest funding forms part of the company’s $150m strategic China venture fund announced earlier this year.
Start-ups being backed by Qualcomm include eye-tracking solution provider 7Invensun; mobile entertainment platform provider Chukong Technologies; smart home device/platform solution provider inPlug; voice recognition and processing technology provider Unisound; and the China Walden Ventures Investment.
Qualcomm Ventures senior vice president Nagraj Kashyap said: "Qualcomm is passionate about innovation and committed to helping advance the Chinese wireless industry."
"With a focus on semiconductors, mobile application enablers, smart home and healthcare, this group of startup companies closely complements existing products and services from Qualcomm Incorporated’s subsidiaries."
7Invensun mainly targets the research and development of eye-tracking technology, widely deployed in the field of medical & health, virtual reality and movie entertainment.
Operating as an innovative mobile entertainment platform, Chukong Technologies offers a range of offerings and services that enable developers to create, publish and monetise content.
inPlug’s key technology is targeted at network virtualisation using Software Defined Network, with its existing ‘Light Smart Home’ device series involving a smart plug, smart switch, and infrared control sticker.
Unisound has rolled out a range of voice recognition service middleware and platforms for mobile Internet, smart appliance, wearables and in-car navigation among several others.
Walden International has vast experience in investing in firms across semiconductors, internet and digital media, software and IT services, and emerging technologies.
