Shenzhen-based artificial intelligence startup Zhuiyi Technology has recently picked up $41 million in its C round of financing. The funds will go towards the development of AI technology and products, recruitment, ecosystem building and overseas expansion.
SINO-BLR Industrial Investment Fund of China Merchants Group is the lead investor, and Sinovation Ventures, Morningside Venture Capital, Gaorong Capital and GGV Capital also participate in the funding round.
Zhuiyi Technology is one of the first AI platforms to develop deep learning technology for China enterprises. It had earlier secured $20.6 million in the B round in November 2017, a few million dollars in the A round in September 2016 and the angel round in January 2016.
The company announced it was venturing into the hospitality industry in May last year, when it unveiled at the Future Travellers Conference its assistant service YiButler and a strategic cooperation with China Hospitality Technology Alliance (CHTA). The two elements form a part of its strategy to provide AI products and solutions for hotels and travel companies.
Zhuiyi has already been exploring hotel technology and AI applications with CHTA prior to the latest strategic partnership. The two parties will integrate the product and technology capabilities of Zhuiyi Technology with the professional expertise and insights of CHTA to achieve win-win synergies.
YiButler’s personal assistance services can be activated through text and voice via hotel applications, WeChat miniprogram and other channels. There will be no need to transfer calls through bedside phones or front desks. The assistant can also generate a job order for the service staff to deliver the services requested by guests.
As YiButler is connected with hotels and lifestyle networks, it is able to extend a hotel’s service coverage and deliver more added-value services for dining, transportation, entertainment and shopping.
