Volkswagen is betting big on China, expanding its footprint in the world's second-largest economy -- despite a slowdown in growth. The German automaker announced a $180 million investment into Chinese firm Mobvoi on Thursday. The tie-up will focus on implementing Mobvoi's artificial intelligence technology, such as its voice recognition feature and a smart rearview mirror, to help improve drivers' experiences. "We are impressed by Mobvoi's innovative approach of AI technologies, and we are pleased to form this joint venture to explore the next generation of smart mobility," Jochem Heizmann, CEO of Volkswagen China said in the joint statement. Despite slower growth in China, Volkswagen has continued to invest heavily in the world's second-largest economy.

Sony Corp. said Wednesday it has invested in U.S. artificial intelligence startup Cogitai, aiming to develop new AI technologies and release products within the next three years. Sony is believed to have obtained a roughly 20 percent stake in the company that was founded in September by three AI researchers. The move could lead to the electronics giant re-entering the robot business. Sony was an AI pioneer, known for producing robotic dog AIBO and humanoid QRIO featuring AI technologies. But it withdrew from the robot business in 2006 to improve profitability and restructure its consumer electronics business.