AI integration in daily life: wellness technology experiences at Sino Inno Lab and The Spark

The Government is actively transforming Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre through initiatives aimed at nurturing talents and boosting local technological competitiveness. The development of the Northern Metropolis, a vast area near Sheung Shui, Yuen Long that borders Shenzhen, is designed to foster synergy in research, development, and talent exchange. New ventures are emerging in the Northern Metropolis, promoting the integration of I&T into daily life.

In this dynamic landscape, Sino Inno Lab and The Spark, launched by the Sino Group, have established a presence at One North, a strategic location in the Northern Metropolis, since last year. They have welcomed over 1,500 visitors, including representatives from local universities, start-ups from the Greater Bay Area and abroad, as well as delegates from various organisations and educational institutions, fostering industry dialogue throughout the year.

Recently, Sino Inno Lab and The Spark partnered with local university start-ups and One North tenants to host the Community Wellness Inno Day, an event promoting the integration of I&T into daily life. Over 500 community members,  including underprivileged families and children from the North District, participated.  The event showcased wellness-related innovations from university start-ups, alongside engaging mind-body activities offered by tenants, all designed to promote wellness in a fun, accessible way. Each activity, whether tech-driven or physically engaging, underscored the shared goal of fostering community well-being through innovation.

One well-liked feature was the “Wellness Journey”, where participants took an AI facial scan from PanopticAI, a Hong Kong University of Science and Technology start-up, to receive personalised health insights and herbal tea recommendations in collaboration with Lify Wellness. “The feedback and interaction with users have been truly inspiring for our team, motivating us to continue developing and enhancing our products as we aim to integrate wellness technology into daily life and make a meaningful impact on society,” says Dr Kyle Wong, CEO and co-founder of PanopticAI.

Another highlight was an immersive 360° VR bowling experience, powered by a high-performance CAVE automatic virtual environment system. Developed from the University of Hong Kong’s research and enhanced by its start-up VOTANIC, this technology combines health, entertainment and advanced technology, providing participants with realistic interactions and physical effects.

Participants also enjoyed a range of activities, including Muay Thai self-defense exercises, yoga breathing training, pain point location practice, and rock climbing. These free sessions, offered by wellness-focused tenants such as hive and First Climb, promoted balanced living and mindfulness.  “It is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to explore different experiences under one roof,” says Kerwin Leung, Chief Operating Officer of hive. “I hope participants leave with fresh ideas about wellness and technology.”

“We are grateful for the invaluable support and participation of our partners, industry peers, tenants, and community groups as we strive to leverage technology to strengthen community connections, nurture an I&T culture, and contribute to the ongoing development of the Northern Metropolis,” says David Ng, Group Associate Director of Sino Group.

Ng adds, “We believe that the extensive application and advancement of AI will provide convenience and create significant growth opportunities.” He said that Sino Group is committed to building up the I&T ecosystem through initiatives such as the establishment of Sino Inno Lab and The Spark, enhancing the talent pool, and promoting a culture that integrates I&T into daily life while inspiring further development.

Sino Inno Lab provides a space for start-ups, inventors, and technology companies from Hong Kong, mainland China, and abroad to showcase proof-of-concept development and technological innovations.  The Spark, a vibrant open exchange platform at the same location, is designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators to connect, collaborate, and explore the business opportunities in the Northern Metropolis and the Greater Bay Area.The recent Community Wellness Inno Day further underscored the potential for integration of I&T into daily life, benefitting both the community and driving progress within the I&T sector in Hong Kong.