Microsoft closes internal IoT and AI lab in Shanghai

Microsoft has closed its internal IoT and AI lab in Shanghai's Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park. The lab focused on developing IoT and AI technologies and ceased operations earlier this year. The lab opened in May 2019 to promote collaboration between Microsoft and Zhangjiang, an important innovation center in Shanghai's Pudong New Area. During its five years of operation, the lab supported 258 projects involving nearly 100 companies and trained nearly 10,000 professionals. As of June 2024, the more than 50 companies supported by the lab attracted more than 9.4 billion yuan (about $1.3 billion) in external investment. However, the facility has been closed since January or February 2025, with its logo removed and office equipment cleared out. Microsoft has not yet commented on the closure.