Build original smart hardware
Use 3D printing or CNC to shape a device, then bring cameras, microphones, sensors, and the Agent into one interaction to create a new agentic experience.
Applications open
Spotlight Shenzhen 2026
Next Gen
AI native products
NEXT IS NOT GIVEN.
01 / WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Novel agenticuser experience (UX)
The Agent understands context, calls tools, and completes the task—not just another chat box inside an existing product. Hardware, cross-device systems, and software are all eligible.
Connect existing and cross-device systems
Connect open-source watches, smart glasses, phones, and computers so the Agent can continue tasks across devices.
Build AI-native software
Mobile apps, desktop products, and websites are all eligible—but the Agent must complete the task.
02 / WHAT FINALISTS RECEIVE
Get the product seen.
Make the next step happen.
Finalists enter a real developer and industry setting: first gaining exposure to thousands of attendees, then meeting companies, maker teams, and fellow projects. We also provide travel support so selected teams can get to Shenzhen.
01 / EXPOSURE
Project exposure
Show your product to thousands of attendees, including engineers and product leaders from major companies, open-source contributors, and investors.
Put the product directly in front of users, partners, and potential backers. 02 / CONNECTIONS
Real connections
Meet company teams, maker groups, and other selected projects during the sprint and conference, with a working product as the starting point for collaboration.
Go beyond collecting contacts: start a useful product conversation. 03 / TRAVEL
Travel support
Finalist projects receive travel support to come to Shenzhen. Teams can attend GOSIM Shenzhen 2026 in person and watch the full conference program on October 16–17.
Travel cost should not keep a strong project away from the room.03 / WHAT THE FORM ASKS
Prepare these,
then apply
The form takes about 10–15 minutes. Prototype and demo links must remain accessible during review.
The form requires
- Team and project overview
- Target users, use case, and problem
- The Agent’s core work and difference
- Accessible prototype and one-minute demo
- Shenzhen goal, support needs, and open-source plan
04 / FORMAT
Global selectionClosed Shenzhen sprintGlobal launch
Spotlight is not an idea contest. It is an acceleration path from product conviction to public release. The standard rises at every stage until only work that can be experienced and verified remains.
01
Online selection
Validate value, experience, and feasibilitySubmit an interactive prototype, short video, and build plan
02
Shenzhen sprint
About two focused days to build and refineFinish a working product with software, hardware, and mentor support
On-site support
- Product and UX review
- AI engineering and systems guidance
- 3D printing and basic fabrication
- Workspace and demo rehearsal
03
GOSIM live showcase
Exhibition booth + main-stage talkEach project receives an on-site booth for ongoing demos and conversations, plus a dedicated slot on the conference main stage to present the product and give a live demonstration to the full audience.
05 / JUDGING
Evaluation
60% evaluates product value and AI UX; 40% evaluates whether the prototype is real, stable, and verifiable.
60%
Product value and UX
An important user problem
A convincing AI user experience
Innovation and potential
40%
Execution and completion
- A prototype reviewers can use
- A stable, credible implementation
- A team that can deliver the showcase build
06 / OUTCOMES & OPEN SOURCE
Leave a public outcome
Finalists should provide a public repository, technical note, or accessible product. Reasonable exemptions are available for commercial code, hardware designs, or private data.
Do I have to build hardware?
Hardware is not required, but it is strongly encouraged. Designing a new hardware form or adapting an existing device can explore Agent-native interaction more fully; software-only projects remain eligible when software is the right medium for the core experience.
How complete should the prototype be?
The core experience only needs to be clear and verifiable. A website, Figma flow, app, simulator, or device demo can all be a starting point.
Can a team with limited engineering ability join?
Yes. Projects with strong design and a clear core experience may receive software-factory, TA, and engineering support on site, while remaining responsible for the result.
When do applications close?
International: Sep 13. China: Oct 4. Both deadlines are in 2026 at 23:59 Beijing time (UTC+8). Results: International · Sep 18; China · Oct 9.
SPOTLIGHT / SHENZHEN / 2026 SHENZHEN 2026 · THE EDITION BADGE
A pioneering spirit. A new chapter.
Every Spotlight edition has its own badge. In 2026, we gather in Shenzhen, with a golden pioneering ox poised to move forward as the emblem of this edition.
The pioneering ox holds a special place in Shenzhen’s story, representing the city’s drive to explore, innovate, and build through hands-on work. Our pioneering ox echoes that spirit and our invitation to creators: imagine boldly, experiment, and turn ideas into products people can use.
Bring what you’re building to Shenzhen. Take the next step together.
City story: Shenzhen and the pioneering oxREADY TO BUILD THE NEXT INTERFACE?
NEXT IS NOT GIVEN.
DEFINE IT.
Submit your category thesis, system prototype, and first-release plan for Spotlight Shenzhen 2026.
Allow 10–15 minutes; submissions are accepted in English or Chinese