vivo’s Bold Leap into Robotics and Mixed Reality
When does a smartphone company evolve beyond just making phones? For vivo, the answer became clear at this year’s Boao Forum for Asia, a leading economic summit in Asia. There, vivo revealed its ambitious move to expand beyond mobile devices and enter the fields of robotics and mixed reality (MR). This strategic shift is more than launching new gadgets; it highlights vivo’s commitment to placing humanity at the core of technology.
Redefining the Future with a User-First Approach
Looking back on vivo’s 30-year journey, the company has consistently focused on addressing user needs and embracing human-centered technology as its unique strength. For instance, “vivo Sight” uses artificial intelligence to convert images into voice prompts, helping visually impaired individuals navigate the world. Likewise, “vivo Voice” aims to assist over 400 million people with hearing difficulties by translating silent codes into audible signals.
At the Boao Forum, vivo not only renewed its role as a strategic partner for the fourth year but also joined the Board of Directors. The event served as a stage to present vivo’s vision of blending innovative technology with human values. The newly launched vivo X200 Ultra earned the title of “Official Smartphone of the Boao Forum for Asia,” demonstrating vivo’s growing influence and dedication to quality.
Connecting Humanity and Technology Through Robotics
During the “vivo Release Moment,” the company’s top executive shared vivo’s vision to bring people closer to technology—not just with smartphones but through robotics and mixed reality as well. He said, “Robots represent the future of the mobile phone industry. They serve as a bridge between the physical and digital worlds, guided by human-centric values and designed around real-world user scenarios to deliver truly exceptional experiences.” This philosophy drives vivo’s move into robotics and the launch of its vivo Vision MR headset.
Unlike many robots that function separately from digital networks, vivo imagines intelligent companions that engage users physically, emotionally, and digitally. With many advanced countries facing aging populations, changing family setups, and more people living alone, vivo believes robots will become part of the household like family members. “We have to solve what the user’s needs for robots are within the family,” the executive explained, emphasizing a user-first mindset. Future robots, he said, must meet both physical and emotional demands.
Technology Transfer and Partnerships for Next-Gen Robots
Building on its expertise in imaging, AI, and personalized data, vivo is creating the “brain” and “eyes” for future home robots. The company estimates that around 80% of its current technology can be adapted to these new devices. To complete the mechanical parts—the “limbs”—vivo is actively looking for partners. A prototype family robot might debut within three to five years, with commercial models expected in five to eight years.
Alongside robotics, vivo’s launch of the Vision MR headset and ongoing 6G research show its dedication to transforming how people experience immersive digital environments.
Local Roots: vivo’s Connection with Filipino Consumers
While vivo’s ambitions stretch globally, its success is grounded in understanding local cultures and daily life. In the Philippines, this “more local, more global” philosophy has proven effective.
Since entering the Philippine market in 2016, vivo Philippines has combined global innovation with local relevance. By offering affordable pricing and establishing 328 exclusive stores nationwide, vivo ensures its advanced technology reaches Filipinos everywhere, making innovation accessible.
Its partnership with ZEISS has made vivo a favorite among smartphone photography fans. The vivo X200 Pro’s 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera has earned praise nationwide. Through each product, vivo aims to improve daily life and create meaningful experiences for millions of Filipinos.
Long-Term Vision Rooted in Innovation and Values
Behind these bold moves and local strategies is a company now serving over 500 million users across more than 60 countries. In 2024, vivo was the fastest-growing brand among the world’s top five smartphone makers and ranked among the Top 50 Most Valuable Chinese Brands by reputable global rankings.
Currently, over half of vivo’s revenue comes from markets outside China, with expectations to reach 70% by 2027. Despite its size, vivo remains true to its core philosophy of long-term thinking, human-centered innovation, and collaboration.
The company plans to keep this momentum, aiming to strengthen its global presence. “We will continue to invest in long-term technology and continue to create new things,” the executive said. “This is the path we want to continue on and work hard to shape the future.” This vision is rooted in “benfen,” vivo’s belief in doing the right thing and doing things right to add value to society.
From the Boao Forum to the Philippines and beyond, vivo shows that the future of technology is not only fast-paced but also purposeful, intentional, and designed to make a real impact.
ADVT.
This article is brought to you by vivo.
For more news and updates on vivo’s bold leap into robotics and mixed reality, visit Filipinokami.com.