SenseTime-backed robotics startup ACE Robotics closes angel round led by AntGroup

ACE Robotics, supported by SenseTime, successfully raised an undisclosed amount in an angel funding round led by Ant Group. The funding aims to enhance model development and commercial deployments, targeting sectors like energy and tourism.

Key Points

• ACE Robotics, backed by SenseTime, has closed an angel funding round led by Ant Group.
• Other investors include Qiming Venture Partners, GVC, Hony Capital, Lenovo Capital, and Lotus Capital from Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
• The round also saw existing investor Sense Capital increasing its investment.
• ACE Robotics was founded in December 2025 and offers the ACE embodied R&D framework and the Kairos 3.0 open-source world model.
• Funding will be used for model development, data collection, and commercial deployments in energy, transport, and tourism sectors.

Relevance

• The rise of robotics and AI in various sectors parallels the ongoing push for tech innovation, especially in China.
• Ant Group's involvement reflects significant investments in AI startups, aligning with the trend of tech consolidation by major firms.
• The increase in funding for AI robotics resonates with the growing demand for automation in industries like logistics and service, projected for growth through 2025.

The successful funding of ACE Robotics signifies a continuing trend in AI and robotics investment, highlighting innovations and strategic partnerships that may shape various industries in the near future.