New Razer-NUS AI lab to build companions beyond Tamagotchi, gaming intelligence

Singapore-based gaming company Razer has partnered with the National University of Singapore (NUS) to establish a joint AI research lab aimed at advancing the development of advanced digital companions and AI-powered wearables. The collaboration, announced on August 5, marks a key step toward bringing more sophisticated AI-driven tools to consumers, including a 3D holographic digital assistant named AVA and a wearable AI headset known as Project Motoko. The Razer-NUS Joint AI Research Lab will focus on creating AI models capable of supporting both in-game and real-life interactions. This initiative builds upon Razer's earlier efforts with AVA, a 3D holographic digital companion first unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show 2026 in Las Vegas. AVA features a 5.5-inch animated hologram display that uses built-in cameras and microphones to scan its surroundings and assist with tasks such as managing schedules, tracking weather conditions, and offering guidance during video games. During a recent demonstration, AVA was shown interacting with an animated character named Kira, who could recommend restaurants, estimate travel times, and even engage in conversation. Currently, AVA exists as a prototype that relies on xAI’s Grok for its conversational capabilities. Razer is working on enabling users to choose from different AI models, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Google’s Gemini, to customize their experience. The device, shaped like a transparent cylindrical block, allows users to plug it into a computer for assistance with tasks or use it as a virtual gaming partner. Over 15,000 individuals have placed a $20 deposit for the product, indicating strong early interest. In addition to AVA, the lab will support Razer’s Project Motoko, a wearable AI headset equipped with cameras to analyze the user’s environment and offer tailored recommendations. During a demo, Motoko demonstrated its ability to suggest recipes based on available ingredients, estimate calorie counts, and translate Japanese menus in real-time. The headset is designed to compete with smart glasses from companies like Meta and Google, though Razer emphasizes that the market is large enough to accommodate multiple players. The lab will be housed at NUS and will employ approximately 20 PhD and postdoctoral researchers specializing in AI. These experts will collaborate directly with Razer’s engineering team to ensure practical applications and seamless integration into consumer products. While financial contributions from both parties have not been disclosed, they agree to share operational expenses and jointly own any resulting intellectual property. NUS associate professor Ooi Wei Tsang, a co-director of the lab, stated that the partnership represents a strategic move toward shaping the future of interactive gaming experiences through next-generation intelligent systems. As the project progresses, further details regarding pricing, availability, and additional features are expected to emerge.