BrainCo and Hangzhou's 'Six Little Dragons' drive Zhejiang's AI ambitions

Walking into the exhibition hall of BrainCo, a neurotechnology company based in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, visitors are greeted by a range of products that seem straight out of science fiction.

Among them is an intelligent bionic hand that combines brain-computer interface (BCI) technology with artificial intelligence algorithms.

Unlike some advanced prosthetic devices, the hand requires no surgery. Users simply wear the device, which can detect neural and muscular signals in real time. This enables all five fingers to move independently with natural dexterity, according to the company.

Expanding on this technological potential, Nyx He, senior vice-president at BrainCo, thinks BCIs can improve lives. People who have lost the use of their hands or legs may regain certain functions through the technology, she said.

The possibilities extend further. He also believes brain-computer interfaces could also enhance the capabilities of able-bodied individuals, helping them accomplish tasks that were previously impossible.

BrainCo's achievements reflect a local trend: it is one of Hangzhou's so-called "Six Little Dragons", a group of fast-rising technology firms that have helped make the city one of China's most closely watched innovation hubs. Their success reflects a broader push across Zhejiang, where technological innovation is increasingly driving industrial transformation and economic growth.

The province is working to build itself into a leading center for AI innovation. It is accomplishing this by incorporating AI into its industrial cluster development strategy and promoting the integrated development of AI models, data, and computing power while strengthening the foundations of the industry, according to Zhan Min, director of the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Economy and Information Technology, who recently spoke with a group of domestic and international reporters.