(Yicai) Sept. 9 -- GlocalMe, which has several innovative products on show at the ongoing IFA 2025 in Berlin, is transitioning from a hardware manufacturer to a “hardware + software + service” ecosystem, the founder and chief executive officer of parent firm uCloudlink told Yicai at the consumer electronics expo.

This year, GlocalMe has brought the world’s first pet smartphone, the PetPhone, a three-in-one eSIM Trio global connectivity solution, the G40 Pro which is powered by AI HyperConn® technology, and the multifunctional Unicord Pro to Berlin.

By targeting specialized markets such as human-pet connectivity and personal global mobile solutions, the Hong Kong-based firm is positioning itself for sustainable growth, said Chen Zhaohui, who spent 20 years at Huawei Technologies as president of its terminal division and general manager of its UK operations before he founded uCloudlink in 2014.

Yicai: How many times has GlocalMe taken part in the IFA? Compared with other international trade shows such as the CES, what is the focus this year?

Chen Zhaohui: This is GlocalMe’s second time at IFA. We’re showcasing new products, including the world’s first pet smartphone, the PetPhone, a three-in-one eSIM Trio global connectivity solution, the G40 Pro which is powered by AI HyperConn® technology, and the multifunctional Unicord Pro.

Compared to CES or ICTCOMM, this year’s IFA emphasizes deeper vertical applications and localized partnerships in Europe. We’re focusing on integrating our “hardware + software + service” ecosystem, particularly for human-pet connectivity and personal global mobile solutions. We’ve already secured preliminary agreements with several European distributors and operators, aiming to expand into 12 countries by the fourth quarter.

Yicai: What’s the background and business model for products like PetPhone?

Chen: PetPhone was developed to meet the growing demand from millions of pet-owning households worldwide for emotional bonding and smart pet care. The device features two-way calling, AI-powered health management and six-mode location tracking. We are already partnering with major retailers like Chewy in North America and Pets at Home in Europe. User testing feedback has been very positive so far.

PetPhone reflects GlocalMe’s strategic shift from hardware to a “device-service-ecosystem” model. By targeting high-potential markets through high-frequency, essential-use scenarios, the company can build a sustainable service revenue stream.

Yicai: How has the service side evolved within the “hardware + software + service” model?

Chen: The services segment has seen significant growth. Revenue from our personal connectivity services surged 127 percent year-on-year. We expect services to account for an even larger share moving forward. Services such as eSIM, CloudSIM subscriptions and pet health management bring higher margins and stronger user loyalty, allowing us to shift from one-time hardware sales to a long-term operations model.

Yicai: What new market trends have you noticed from your interactions with European consumers at IFA?

Chen: European consumers care a lot about data privacy and they prefer localized services, such as multilingual support, local payment options and tailored content. These insights have opened the door to new collaborations with European telecoms operators like Deutsche Telekom and Orange, as well as pet and electronics retailers. We’re moving forward with negotiations to strengthen our presence in the region.

Yicai: GlocalMe serves users in over 200 countries and regions. Which are your current core markets, and which will you focus on next?

Chen: Our current key markets include North America, where we hold a 32 percent share in airport sales channels, Europe, where our multifunctional devices rank among the top three in sales, and Asia, where smart pet devices have huge potential. Going forward, we will focus on expanding in Europe and Asia, particularly in pet tech and cross-border connectivity.

Yicai: With tech giants like Apple and Google partnering directly with carriers, how does GlocalMe stay competitive?

Chen: Our edge comes from technologies such as CloudSIM and HyperConn,® which enable us to aggregate across different networks instead of competing directly with the giants. We specialize in niche markets such as cross-border business travelers and pet connectivity. The rise of the eSIM is both an opportunity and a challenge. Our eSIM Trio solution is easy for users to adopt, while our multi-operator integration and cost-performance advantages ensure that we stay competitive.

Yicai: In today’s complex geopolitical climate, is market diversification even more important? How do you manage risks?

Chen: Diversification is key. We mitigate risks through 183 global patents, partnerships with local distributors and strict compliance with data regulations in each market. This balanced approach reduces reliance on any single region.

Editor: Kim Taylor