The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) made a significant impact at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026, held from January 6 to 9. Leading a delegation of 19 startups, PolyU showcased its advancements in various fields, including human security, digital health, and energy optimization. The University achieved remarkable success, securing one “Best of Innovation Award” and two “Innovation Awards,” representing two-thirds of the awards received by the entire Hong Kong startup delegation.
Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU’s Senior Vice President for Research and Innovation, stated, “PolyU is committed to nurturing innovative research talent with both national and international outlooks. We empower our teams by leading them to major international innovation events and fostering close collaboration among industry, academia, research, and investment sectors on a global level.” He emphasized that PolyU’s participation underlines Hong Kong’s goal to establish itself as an international innovation and technology hub.
This year’s CES gathered over 4,500 exhibitors, and PolyU stood out as the only university from Hong Kong participating in the event. The University’s innovative projects not only garnered recognition but also highlighted its commitment to advancing technologies that benefit society.
Innovative Projects Recognized
Among the award-winning innovations was the Smart Firefighting Robot, developed by WANG Meng, a PhD candidate in the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering and the founder of Widemount Dynamics Tech Limited. This groundbreaking robot received the “Best of Innovation Award” in the “Products in Support of Human Security for All” category. The robot features autonomous patrol capabilities, classification of burning materials, fire extinguishing functions, and real-time data sharing, enhancing the safety of firefighters and the public alike.
The “Innovation Award” in the “Accessibility and Longevity” category was awarded to the Powered Rehab Skateboard, created by Prof. Kenneth FONG, Associate Dean of the Graduate School and Associate Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences. This portable robotic system provides support for home-based rehabilitation for stroke patients, enabling effective motor recovery in affected limbs.
Another notable achievement was the FattaLab® Fatty Liver Diagnostic Device, which won an “Innovation Award” in the “Digital Health” category. Developed by a team led by Prof. ZHENG Yongping, this device is the world’s first lightweight intelligent system for fatty liver detection, weighing only 120 grams and capable of completing assessments in just 30 seconds with medical-grade accuracy.
Supporting Innovation and Growth
PolyU’s participation in CES highlights its robust research capabilities and unique startup ecosystem, known as PolyVentures. The University actively encourages its research teams and startups to bring innovative technologies to the global stage. The success of the award-winning projects reflects PolyU’s strategic focus on fostering advancements that have the potential to create significant social impacts.
The impressive lineup of startups at CES included several other innovative companies, such as Eieling Technology Limited, which showcased the FattaLab® device, and CyanSE Smart Energy Tech Limited, presenting AI-powered energy optimization platforms. Each startup contributed to a diverse representation of Hong Kong’s technology landscape and underscored the city’s potential as a hub for innovation.
PolyU’s achievements at CES 2026 not only set a new benchmark for the University but also highlight the growing influence of Hong Kong’s research and innovation sectors on the global stage. The recognition received at this prestigious event serves as motivation for PolyU and its affiliated startups to continue pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation.
