In Q1 2026, China's embodied AI and humanoid robot sector saw over 50 disclosed funding rounds totaling approximately 20 billion yuan, a nearly 60% year-over-year increase. As capital enthusiasm reaches historical highs, the battle for AI's physical entry point has entered a new phase.
Behind this wave are China's internet giants shifting from passive financial investors to active participants. Alibaba stands out as the most comprehensive and aggressive player, employing a "capital + R&D + ecosystem" full-stack strategy:
Capital Side: According to IT Juzi, Alibaba has invested in the humanoid robot sector 20 times since 2014, covering 13 companies—the most active among internet giants. Investments focus on Pre-A to A+ rounds, targeting high-value projects like Unitree and ZJN Dynamics.
Technology Side: In February 2026, Alibaba's Damo Academy officially released the RynnBrain embodied AI foundation model. Meanwhile, AutoNavi (AMAP) launched the ABot full-stack embodied technology system and the quadruped robot "Tutu," completing a guide-dog demonstration at the Yizhuang Half Marathon.
Ecosystem Integration: In March, Alibaba established the Alibaba Token Hub (ATH) business group, integrating Tongyi Lab and Qianwen division. The trademark registration covers AI services, communications, and humanoid robot hardware—a complete legal moat.
Industry experts note that Alibaba's strategy is forcing the industry shift from "hardware competition" to "data + algorithm + scenario" comprehensive competition. Other tech giants are following differentiated paths: Tencent is selective, Baidu is technology-driven, and ByteDance focuses on self-developed breakthroughs.
