CES访谈｜盖茨、亚马逊抢投硅谷黑马，光学芯片如何驱动物理AI

Core Insights - The focus of the 2026 CES is shifting from large language models (LLMs) to robotics and physical AI, emphasizing the importance of sensors, particularly optical semiconductors, in making AI applicable in the real world [1] - Lumotive's programmable optical chip, which operates without moving parts, is gaining attention for its ability to redefine laser radar (LiDAR) technology, making it smaller, more efficient, and easier to produce [1] Group 1: Technological Advancements - The bottleneck for physical AI is not in the models but in perception, highlighting the need for advanced sensors to enable robots to effectively interact with the real world [4] - Lumotive's optical semiconductors significantly enhance sensor performance by improving size, cost, durability, reliability, and efficiency, which are crucial for long-term operation in complex environments [4][5] - The software configurability of Lumotive's optical chip allows for the creation of multiple "virtual sensors," enabling dynamic switching between different perspectives, resolutions, and scanning strategies, thus fostering algorithm innovation [5] Group 2: Application Scenarios - Lumotive is actively collaborating in three main sectors: robotics, industrial automation, and smart infrastructure, all of which require high precision, safety, and reliability in sensors while being sensitive to cost and size [6] - The company is also exploring opportunities in commercial vehicles, heavy machinery, and forklifts, with a long-term vision for consumer vehicles and electronics [6] - The integration of LiDAR technology into high-end consumer devices, such as Apple smartphones, opens up possibilities for more consumer-grade 3D perception applications [6] Group 3: Investment Landscape - Notable investors in Lumotive include Bill Gates, Samsung, and Amazon, indicating strong confidence in the foundational technology rather than specific products [8] - The investment from strategic partners like Samsung and Amazon reflects their interest in the technology's applicability across consumer electronics, cloud computing, and smart devices [8] - Lumotive represents a paradigm shift where light is evolving from a physical component to a programmable, calculable, and scalable resource, similar to how CMOS cameras revolutionized smartphones [8]