What role will Kong Tao play at Xiaomi?

Kong Tao will lead the team developing foundational models for robotics, which will serve as the basis for creating and training robots, including humanoid solutions.

Why is Kong Tao's transition significant for Xiaomi?

The arrival of an experienced specialist from ByteDance enhances Xiaomi's expertise in robotics and AI, potentially accelerating the development and deployment of new technologies in its products.

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Former ByteDance Robotics Head Joins Xiaomi to Develop AI Models

August 10, 2026

Photo: TechNode

Quick answer

Kong Tao, former head of ByteDance's robotics division, has taken the lead at Xiaomi to develop foundational AI models for robotics.

Xiaomi is expanding its capabilities in robotics and artificial intelligence by hiring Kong Tao, the former head of ByteDance's robotics division. According to sources, he joined Xiaomi in early 2025 and now leads the team developing foundational models for robots.

Kong Tao brought several former colleagues from ByteDance, strengthening Xiaomi's expertise in this field. The company already employs around 200 staff in its robotics division, with the foundational model team operating separately to focus on integrating AI into robotic solutions.

Xiaomi has already unveiled its first foundational robotics model, Xiaomi-Robotics-1, and is testing humanoid robots in production environments. These developments could become key to automating processes and creating new products in the company's portfolio.

Kong Tao's move underscores the strategic importance of robotics for Xiaomi, which aims to compete with industry leaders in AI and automation. The new team will continue improving existing models and developing innovative solutions.

Common questions

What role will Kong Tao play at Xiaomi?: Kong Tao will lead the team developing foundational models for robotics, which will serve as the basis for creating and training robots, including humanoid solutions.
What robotics projects is Xiaomi currently working on?: Xiaomi has already introduced its foundational model, Xiaomi-Robotics-1, and is testing humanoid robots in production environments. The company is actively expanding its automation and AI initiatives.
Why is Kong Tao's transition significant for Xiaomi?: The arrival of an experienced specialist from ByteDance enhances Xiaomi's expertise in robotics and AI, potentially accelerating the development and deployment of new technologies in its products.

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