The Hong Kong Computer & Communications Festival opened Friday with artificial intelligence taking center stage, as crowds gathered to explore new technology, shop for deals and take advantage of spending incentives.
The four-day event at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre features an AI-focused exhibition area, retailer promotions and programs intended to encourage purchases, including a HK$3 million cash-coupon initiative.
But some shoppers said discounts were being offset by the rising cost of computer hardware.
Lau, a longtime festival attendee who gave only his surname, said he bought a laptop that was priced only a few hundred Hong Kong dollars below regular retail prices. The purchase included free items worth more than HK$1,000, including a backpack and thermal flask.
He said the offer was worthwhile because he could use the bundled items, but added that computer components have become substantially more expensive in recent years.
Another visitor, student Cyrus, said he came mainly to survey the latest products and experience the event. He said the venue was already crowded when he arrived at about 10:30 a.m.
Cyrus said he was not yet ready to buy anything despite the promotions. His school is working on an artificial intelligence-related project, and he was encouraged to visit the festival’s AI zone to try emerging technologies firsthand.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po said at the opening ceremony that the event has long showcased technology products and innovative solutions that are reshaping work and daily life.
He urged visitors to look beyond shopping and explore AI applications, saying greater understanding and effective use of the technology could strengthen individual skills, competitiveness and career opportunities.
Chan said the government has formed an AI and Industrial Development Strategy Committee and plans to promote AI adoption across industries while making related learning opportunities available to people of different ages and backgrounds.
Reggie Wong, chairman of the Chamber of Hong Kong Computer Industry, said the festival’s theme, “AI Connect: Let’s Link the Future!”, aligns with the government’s “AI for All” training initiative.
Organizers hope the event will help residents and small and medium-sized businesses move from understanding AI concepts to using the technology in practical ways, Wong said.
The festival also includes youth science education activities and fan-culture elements, he said. A new trade-in program allows attendees to exchange old computers for vouchers that can be used immediately at the event.
