Chinese tech giant bolsters AI ambitions with new foundation model division

Huawei has formed a new foundation model division within its R&D arm and is recruiting global AI talent as it seeks to intensify competition in large-model development among Chinese tech firms.

Huawei, foundation model unit, AI talent recruitment, generative AI, R&D strategy, Chinese tech competition

Huawei Technologies is intensifying its AI strategy with the establishment of a dedicated foundation model unit within its 2012 Laboratories research arm, reflecting the heightened competition among China’s major tech companies to develop advanced AI systems.

A recruitment advertisement posted in October signals that the Shenzhen-based telecom and tech giant is proactively wooing global AI talent to assemble a world-class team focused on foundational model development.

Huawei has confirmed the establishment of the unit but has offered few operational details.

Richard Yu Chengdong, head of Huawei’s consumer group and newly appointed chairman of the Investment Review Board overseeing AI strategy, has personally promoted the drive on social media, urging young engineers to help ‘make the world’s most powerful AI.’

This movement underscores Huawei’s broader ambition to challenge both domestic rivals and Western AI leaders in core areas of generative AI technology.

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