The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) achieved a significant milestone at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026, held from January 6 to 9. Leading a delegation of 19 startups, PolyU showcased groundbreaking research and innovative technologies in areas such as human security, digital health, and energy optimization. The University excelled at the event, securing one “Best of Innovation Award” and two “Innovation Awards,” marking its best performance since its inaugural participation.
With these accolades, PolyU accounted for two-thirds of all awards given to the Hong Kong startup delegation, highlighting its commitment to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Prof. Christopher CHAO, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) at PolyU, emphasized the University’s dedication to fostering innovative talent with a global perspective. He noted, “PolyU is committed to nurturing innovative research talent with both national and international outlooks. Our record-breaking performance at this year’s CES affirms international recognition of PolyU research and innovation.”
Highlighted Innovations and Awards
The award-winning projects reflect PolyU’s emphasis on enhancing human security and health through cutting-edge technologies. The standout innovation, the Smart Firefighting Robot, developed by Mr. WANG Meng, a PhD candidate from the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering, achieved the highest score in the “Products in Support of Human Security for All” category and was honored with the prestigious “Best of Innovation Award.” This robot features autonomous patrol capabilities, classification of burning materials, fire extinguishing functions, and real-time data sharing, all designed to protect firefighters and civilians in dangerous environments.
Another notable innovation is 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 device won an “Innovation Award” in the “Accessibility and Longevity” category, serving as a portable, cost-effective solution for home-based rehabilitation for stroke patients.
The FattaLab® Fatty Liver Diagnostic Device, developed by a team led by Prof. ZHENG Yongping, also earned an “Innovation Award” in the “Digital Health” category. This device is noted for its lightweight design, weighing only 120 grams, and its capability to perform a fatty liver assessment in just 30 seconds with medical-grade accuracy.
PolyU’s Role in Global Innovation
As the only university from Hong Kong exhibiting at CES, PolyU represented approximately 30% of the Hong Kong delegation. This participation is part of the University’s broader strategy to contribute to Hong Kong’s evolution into an international innovation and technology hub. The success at CES not only showcases PolyU’s research strengths but also reinforces its role in supporting startups through its unique ecosystem, PolyVentures.
The startups that participated in CES 2026 included a diverse range of innovative companies, each presenting advanced technologies. For example, AniMed Technology Limited demonstrated a contactless AI-driven health monitoring system, while CyanSE Smart Energy Tech Limited showcased AI-powered energy optimization platforms for smart buildings.
These innovations highlight the collaborative spirit within the PolyU community, linking academia, industry, and research to create impactful technologies. The strong showing at CES 2026 enhances PolyU’s reputation and sets the stage for further advancements in the field of innovation and technology, ultimately benefiting society at large.
As PolyU continues to nurture its research teams and startups, the University is poised to make a lasting impact on the global stage, contributing solutions that address pressing human security and health challenges. With the CES 2026 achievements, PolyU reaffirms its commitment to innovation and its vision for a better future through technology.
