Chinese Startup Leiniao Scores Massive $110M AI Glasses Investment

Leiniao Innovation Secures $110 Million in Series C Funding for AI Glasses

Leiniao Innovation, a leading Chinese tech startup, has raised $110 million in a Series C funding round led by CITIC Jingshi and other CITIC Securities subsidiaries. This significant investment, exceeding initial expectations, will accelerate the development of AI-powered AR glasses and expand the company's global footprint.

The funding round, which initially aimed for 300-400 million yuan, ultimately secured 800 million yuan (approximately $110 million USD). CEO Li Hongwei confirmed the oversubscription, highlighting the strong investor interest in Leiniao's innovative AI + AR technology.

Market Leadership and Global Expansion

Leiniao Innovation commands a 39% global market share in AR glasses sales, as reported by Counterpoint Research for Q2 2025. The company has maintained its top position in China for over three years, with its popular Air series dominating consumer-grade AR sales. With products now available in over 25 countries, this funding will fuel Leiniao's aggressive global expansion and product innovation.

"This investment underscores the growing confidence in the AI glasses market," said Li Hongwei. "We are committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible with AR technology and making intelligent eyewear accessible to consumers worldwide."/>

The Growing AI Glasses Market

The AI glasses market is experiencing rapid growth, with extended reality (XR) and intelligent eyewear attracting significant investment. Leiniao's success reflects a broader trend of XR startups transitioning from experimental tech to market-ready products. Founded in October 2021, Leiniao has quickly established itself as a leader in display optics, machine-learning algorithms, and human-machine interaction.

However, competition is intensifying. Domestic rival VITURE recently secured $100 million in Series B funding, marking one of the largest investments in the sector this year. As major tech companies enter the AI glasses market, 2026 is expected to be a pivotal year for market consolidation and innovation.

Future Outlook

Leiniao Innovation's record funding positions it as a frontrunner in the global AI glasses race. The capital will accelerate research and development, particularly for AI + AR glasses, and expand the company's ecosystem. For consumers, this means faster innovation and more sophisticated, accessible smart eyewear.

"The future of seamlessly integrated digital experiences, powered by intelligent spectacles, is arriving sooner than many expected," said an industry analyst. "Leiniao's success is a testament to the market's readiness for this technology."