Cyberport CEO Rocky Cheng recently announced that Cyberport is fully prepared for low-altitude flying tests due to its spacious area and a nearby pier. He mentioned plans to establish a landing port for these test flights and highlighted Cyberport’s role as a venue partner for sandbox pilot projects in the low-altitude economy sector. This initiative aims to provide suitable locations and facilities for drones and other aerial technologies.
During an interview at the Wuzhen summit with RTHK, Cheng emphasized that Cyberport’s geographical environment is ideal for conducting trials related to the low-altitude economy. He specifically mentioned the upcoming Phase 5 building, which will offer a beautiful sea view, as well as a 150-meter-long pier and ample space within Cyberport. Cheng also discussed the intention to create a landing port at the pier and organize drone exhibitions to educate the public on this emerging technology.
In addition to preparations for low-altitude flying tests, Cheng provided an update on the AI supercomputing center, which is set to begin operations later this year. He stated that the center is progressing well, with some computing power already available for use. The goal is to initially offer 1,300 petaflops of computing power, increasing to 1,700 petaflops by the following year. Cheng emphasized the importance of this computing power as critical infrastructure to support the development and promotion of AI in various industries in Hong Kong, aiming to surpass other advanced economies. He expressed confidence in future expansions of computing capacity, with a projected capacity exceeding 10,000 petaflops.
Hendrick Sin, chair of the committee overseeing a HK$3 billion subsidy scheme to support AI researchers and companies utilizing Cyberport’s computing power, described this initiative as the beginning of a new era. Sin highlighted the potential for the AI era to flourish in Hong Kong with increased government investment and initiatives. The subsidy scheme, which opened for applications in October, prioritizes firms with expertise in research and development, presenting innovative ideas that benefit the Special Administrative Region (SAR).
As Cyberport gears up for low-altitude flying tests and expands its AI supercomputing capabilities, the developments under Cheng’s leadership and Sin’s vision signify a significant step towards fostering innovation and technological advancement in Hong Kong. The commitment to supporting emerging technologies and providing resources for research and development is expected to propel the SAR into a new era of growth and expertise in the fields of the low-altitude economy and artificial intelligence.
