A real genius of artificial intelligence

Before Li Ziqing developed a fascination with artificial intelligence and created the country's most sophisticated biometric tracking network, he made loudspeakers out of salvaged lumber - at age 15, when few Chinese knew what high-fidelity meant.

His interest in engineering compelled him to study at the University in National University of Defense Technology until 1985. Over time, he came to focus on pattern recognition, then a new artificial intelligence development.

"I still loved radio, but I found it had failed to push forward new technology and satisfy my curiosity about the outside world," Li says.