For many, the dream of owning a lush green backyard with a sparkling pool remains just that—a dream—due to the daunting maintenance involved. But technological advancements are quietly revolutionizing this space, with smart backyard devices like pool-cleaning robots and AR glasses emerging as the next frontier for Chinese companies expanding globally.
China’s Globalization Wave in 2025
As globalization accelerates, Chinese enterprises—from automakers like BYD and Li Auto to internet platforms such as Xiaohongshu—are aggressively expanding overseas. Unlike previous efforts, this wave features coordinated development across entire supply chains, spanning appliances, horticulture, internet services, and cutting-edge technology. This integrated approach signals China’s growing competitiveness in global markets.
Pool Cleaning Robots: The Smart Backyard Essential
In Europe and the U.S., where private pools are ubiquitous but labor costs are high, demand for automated solutions has surged. Pool-cleaning robots, combining affordability with efficiency, have become a breakout success.
Market Potential
According to the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, the U.S. alone had over 10.7 million pools in 2023. The cultural emphasis on swimming and rising labor costs have created a perfect storm for robotic alternatives, opening doors for cost-effective Chinese manufacturers.
Key Players and Funding
- Siauto : Founded in 2021, this Shenzhen-based brand specializes in underwater cleaning robots. With strong sales on Amazon and Temu, Siauto reported ¥100 million in revenue in 2024 and shipped nearly 100,000 units. In March 2025, it secured ¥70 million in Series A+ funding to scale production.
- Langyong Future : An ODM supplier for brands like Dreame, this startup debuted its wireless Z1 Pro robot at CES 2025. It raised millions in angel funding in January 2025, led by Dreame’s venture arm.
Competitive Edge
Chinese firms dominate in R&D and scalable production, delivering smarter, cheaper robots. Their supply chain mastery further cements this advantage.
AR Glasses: The Wearable Revolution
From smartwatches to AI Pins, wearables are evolving rapidly. Now, AR glasses are stealing the spotlight, fueled by Meta’s Ray-Ban success—2 million units sold since 2023—and predictions that 2025 will be a watershed year.
Innovators to Watch
- Cellid Inc. : A leader in waveguide technology, this Japanese developer pioneered plastic-based full-color projection. Its $13 million February 2025 funding round brought total investments to $33 million.
- Rokid : Focused on industrial AR applications, this Chinese unicorn raised $70 million in 2024 and $112 million in late 2023, reaching a $1 billion valuation.
Applications
AR glasses are transforming industries—from remote factory maintenance to surgical navigation—while dropping costs promise wider adoption.
The Road Ahead
Smart backyard robots (mowers, irrigators) and AR wearables (helmets, gloves) will redefine convenience. For cross-border e-commerce players, understanding local regulations and cultures will be critical to harnessing this potential.
As pool robots and AR glasses lead China’s export charge, their success underscores the country’s shift from manufacturing to innovation—and the global appetite for smarter living.