One persons IP theft is another persons democratisation of technology. Chinese Shanzhai culture is actually crazy interesting and full of insane reverse engine

One persons IP theft is another persons democratisation of technology. Chinese Shanzhai culture is actually crazy interesting and full of insane reverse engineering efforts etc. Some of my best memories in Shenzen are talking with local EEs about how they RE all sorts of chips and circuits and not only produce good copies but usually more efficient/cost optimized. As for Chinese quality, you get what you pay for - not much different to the rest of the world. There are design firms and factories in China that make absolutely stellar products with insane fit and finish. However there is tons across the whole quality spectrum with plenty catering to the low end of folks doing pure export products that are destined for those cheap $2 stores etc.