US students explore innovation and technology in Huaqiangbei

Brogan O’Leary during an interview with Shenzhen Daily. File photos

A U.S. student delegation from SEE China 2026 visited Huaqiangbei on July 11, exploring the area’s development from its electronics industry roots to its growing AI and innovation ecosystem.

The students toured the Huaqiangbei Museum, the AI Center and the Troublemaker workshop, gaining insights into the district’s history, technological advances and integrated industrial supply chain.

The visit offered an opportunity to experience Huaqiangbei’s fast-paced innovation environment and see how new ideas are rapidly transformed into products.

Brogan O’Leary from the United States was impressed by the variety of innovative products on display.

“There are a lot of new products that change the world in ways people wouldn’t even imagine,” O’Leary said. Describing the district as “innovative and creative,” he noted that visitors could see people developing products and ideas that might not be found in other markets.

O’Leary also tried a device designed to make walking easier. “It made walking feel very effortless,” he said, adding that he would like to use it while visiting a place such as the Great Wall.

U.S. students visit the Huaqiangbei Museum.

For Wang Zhidao from the United States, real-time translation technology was among the most impressive innovations. He also highlighted a VR device that allowed him to view digital content while seeing his surroundings.

“It’s got to be the translation one, because it’s real time. It’s really cool,” Wang said.

Through the visit, the students experienced both the history and the latest developments of Huaqiangbei, gaining a closer look at Shenzhen’s innovation-driven economy and its role in global technology supply chains.