- Campaign tops 636 million yen ahead of final hours on platform
- Chinese AI wearable maker builds on strong overseas demand
Hangzhou-based augmented reality startup Rokid (灵伴科技) said its AI glasses became the highest-grossing crowdfunding project in the 13-year history of Japan’s Makuake platform, raising more than 636 million yen ($4.4 million) in pledges on May 30.
The result surpassed all previous projects across categories on Makuake, Japan’s largest crowdfunding platform, underscoring strong demand for AI-powered wearables in one of Asia’s most competitive consumer electronics markets.
Repeated milestones
The performance in Japan suggests Chinese AI hardware makers are steadily gaining traction beyond their home market, particularly in consumer electronics segments.
Since launching on Makuake in February, the campaign has repeatedly set new milestones. It raised more than 50 million yen within two hours, crossed 100 million yen on the first day, surpassed 200 million yen within two weeks, and exceeded 550 million yen after three months.
Backers came from all 47 prefectures across Japan.
A springboard
Rokid said the Makuake campaign would serve as a springboard for a deeper push into the Japanese market.
The strong reception in Japan follows a successful global launch. The product previously raised more than $4 million on Kickstarter, setting a record for the XR category.
The company has also expanded its retail presence overseas, including a placement at Selfridges in the UK, making Rokid the first Chinese AI glasses brand to enter the luxury department store chain.
Rokid is currently present in more than 115 countries and regions.
According to data from market research firm Shangpu Group, Rokid ranked first globally by sales in the display-equipped AI glasses segment between November 2024 and October 2025.
Compatible with AI models
The glasses weigh less than 50 grams and allow users to switch between multiple AI models, including Qwen, DeepSeek, Doubao and Gemini.
Functions also include real-time translation, AR navigation, AI-generated meeting summaries and contactless payment.
The glasses also support prescription lenses and are designed for all-day wear, features that have resonated with Japanese consumers using AI tools for business, travel, education and daily life.
