Published: 6:06pm, 18 Dec, 2018 Updated: 9:51pm, 18 Dec, 2018
Chinese smart lock start-up YunDing Network Technology raised CNY600m ($87m) from an investment by internet search operator Baidu to expand into the market for smart home devices. The deal meant Baidu would also offer its AI and smart cloud technologies to help YunDing’s expansion. Baidu said AI could revolutionise smart locks. The deal marked the company’s latest venture into home AI. It had already joined forces with home appliance companies in China including Haier Group and TCL to develop smart speakers, fridges and TVs.