Liu Jingkang

Asian Cover Figure | Liu Jingkang: Founder of Insta360, Explorer in 360 Cameras and Smart Imaging

Asian Cover Figure Magazine · Vision | Issue No. 014 - ACF-2026

From an engineering student at Nanjing University to founder of a STAR Market-listed company; from 300,000 yuan startup capital to building competitive advantages in smart imaging — Liu Jingkang's entrepreneurial journey reflects a typical path for technology-driven entrepreneurs.

During his studies at Nanjing University, Liu Jingkang maintained a strong interest in technology and actively participated in various technical projects. According to public reports, he completed several interesting technical experiments, demonstrating strong hands-on abilities and problem-solving skills.

After graduation, Liu chose the entrepreneurial path and started his venture in Shenzhen with classmates.

In the early stage, Liu's team engaged in live streaming and related businesses. Through market research, they identified opportunities for technical improvement in 360 cameras — products at the time generally suffered from unstable connections and slow stitching. The team decided to focus on 360 camera R&D.

Insta360's first 360 camera encountered quality issues after launch, leading to a product recall. This experience reinforced the team's focus on quality control and user research.

Through analyzing user feedback, the team discovered that outdoor sports enthusiasts were a key user segment. This insight led Insta360 to focus on sports scenarios, optimizing products for skiing, cycling, diving, and other activities.

Around outdoor sports needs, the Insta360 team pursued continuous innovation: developing invisible selfie stick algorithms, improving audio capture for sports, and optimizing AI editing features. These scenario-specific improvements helped gain user recognition.

According to public market data, Insta360 has achieved notable market share in the 360 camera segment. In 2024, Insta360's global share in action cameras increased, becoming one of the major players.

As the 360 camera and action camera market evolved, Insta360 faced competition from international brands. Liu's team chose differentiated innovation, investing in AI features and software experience.

On the supply chain side, Insta360 established diversified supplier systems and invested in custom chip development. The company also actively expanded overseas, with products sold in numerous countries.

In management, Liu emphasizes team building and employee welfare. According to public reports, Insta360 introduced various incentive programs. At the 2025 IPO, Liu acknowledged the contributions of early team members.

In 2025, Insta360 went public on the Shanghai STAR Market. According to the prospectus, the company holds hundreds of patents with products sold in over 200 countries. Liu stated the company will continue R&D investment and explore new directions including drones.

From startup to IPO, Liu's journey reflects a typical tech entrepreneur path: problem discovery, R&D, product iteration, and market expansion.

Every cover publication is registered and kept in the ACF Cover Archive. The code is permanent.

Further ReadingRelated

Wang Cen

ACF Code

ACF-01-00198

Wang Cen

Chairman & Founding Partner

Zhang Luokang

ACF Code

ACF-01-00199

Zhang Luokang

Founder & Chairman

Frank Wang

ACF Code

ACF-01-00200

Frank Wang

Founder

Cao Hui

ACF Code

ACF-01-00102

Cao Hui

Chairman

Not Everyone Makes the Cover

Asia Cover Figure · Influencing Those Who Influence