Oppo and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) formalized a renewal of their partnership on Friday, aimed at advancing technological innovation. The collaboration, which has been ongoing for three years, has already seen the development of new technologies integrated into Oppo’s products. The renewed agreement will see Oppo provide funding over the next five years to establish a research center focused on artificial intelligence (AI) imaging technology, with plans for construction to begin in January 2024.
Oppo, PolyU Collaborate to Advance AI Imaging Technology
In a statement released by Oppo, it was noted that a signing ceremony took place between representatives from PolyU and Oppo to officially mark the occasion. This renewal builds on a previous partnership established in 2022, with the new agreement set to enhance financial and technological support from the smartphone manufacturer to the university.
The agreement was signed by Prof. Christopher Chao, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, and Mr. Zheng Qin, Head of Industry-Academia Affairs at Oppo. Oppo will allocate CNY 30 million (approximately Rs. 35.5 crores) over the five-year period.
These funds will facilitate the establishment of a Joint Innovation Research Centre and support the development of co-trained PhD and postdoctoral programs, aiming to make significant advancements in AI imaging technology.
Professor Jin-Guang Teng of PolyU, who witnessed the signing, mentioned that the university plans to officially launch the Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences in January 2025. This new faculty will host the Joint Innovation Research Centre, designed to tackle the challenges and harness the opportunities presented by the AI era, promoting both technological development and talent cultivation.
Although specifics regarding the AI imaging technology have not been disclosed by Oppo, it is expected to involve AI models with capabilities in computer vision, allowing for the analysis of images, videos, device screens, and real-world environments. This initiative could enhance Oppo’s AI offerings to its users.
