Chinese lidar manufacturer Hesai, added to the US Department of Defense blacklist in 2024, continues expanding its presence in the American market while claiming approximately 33% of the global automotive lidar sector.
Hesai's lidar sensors power autonomous vehicles, factory robots, and robotic devices across multiple industries. The company's technology detects surrounding environments using laser pulses, essential for self-driving systems and automation.
The DOD blacklist restricts US defense-related procurement of Hesai products but does not explicitly ban commercial operations. The company maintains significant traction in automotive applications, with major partnerships across the sector.
Hesai's market position reflects intense competition in lidar technology. The sector includes US-based competitors like Velodyne and Luminar, alongside other Chinese manufacturers. Despite geopolitical tensions and regulatory restrictions, Hesai continues pursuing commercial contracts and customer relationships in North America.
The expansion underscores the complexity of tech supply chains amid US-China relations, where military blacklists coexist with commercial market access.
South Korean memory chipmaker SK Hynix completed the largest foreign company listing in US market history. The IPO reflects confidence that artificial intelligence demand will break the semiconductor industry's cyclical boom-and-bust pattern.
Motorola's 2026 Razr Ultra maintains its distinctive aesthetic with minimal upgrades. The foldable phone jumps to $1,499, up $200 from the previous generation.
Xreal has launched its Air 01+ augmented reality glasses at $299. The lightweight device targets gamers and video viewers seeking portable large-screen experiences.
Motorola's 2026 Razr and Razr Plus flip phones cost $100 more than their predecessors while offering few meaningful improvements, exemplifying the smartphone industry's shrinkflation trend.