TL;DR Breakdown
- Zhihu launches AI-powered search feature Sousuo Juhe, enhancing information access efficiency.
- ModelBest introduces Luca, a ChatGPT-like chatbot with document drafting and translation capabilities.
- Chinese tech firms adopt AI advances while adhering to Beijing’s regulations for ChatGPT-like services.
Zhihu, the leading question-and-answer platform in China often compared to Quora, has unveiled a new search function that utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms similar to OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The feature, called Sousuo Juhe (meaning “search aggregation” in English), is set to undergo internal testing, according to Zhihu’s Chief Technology Officer, Li Dahai, as reported by Science and Technology Daily, a state-backed newspaper.
Zhihu and ModelBest collaborate in LLM “Zhihaitu AI”
Sousuo Juhe aims to enhance the efficiency of accessing information by extracting and compiling user-generated answers when a specific topic is searched. The feature will provide comprehensive results, streamlining the process of obtaining information on Zhihu’s platform. This development reflects Zhihu’s commitment to leveraging AI technologies to improve user experience.
Zhihu has collaborated with Beijing-based AI start-up ModelBest to co-develop a large language model (LLM) called “Zhihaitu AI.” The two companies jointly trained the LLM and explored its application in the trending list section of Zhihu’s question-and-answer service. LLMs are deep-learning algorithms capable of recognizing, summarizing, translating, predicting, and generating text based on vast datasets.
Chinese tech firms embrace AI advancements amid regulatory oversight
In a related announcement, ModelBest introduced its own ChatGPT-like chatbot named Luca. Luca possesses various capabilities, including drafting documents, translating articles, and analyzing images. These recent AI advancements in the consumer sector come shortly after the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) cautioned against the potential challenges posed by advanced technologies such as generative AI, citing governance, regulation, and labor market implications.
Chinese tech companies are embracing AI advancements while also adhering to Beijing’s regulatory efforts to oversee the development of ChatGPT-like services in mainland China. Key players like Baidu, Alibaba Group Holding, SenseTime, and iFlyTek have introduced their own alternative services to ChatGPT, which gained significant attention since its launch in November. Baidu, Alibaba’s e-commerce giant, owns the South China Morning Post.
Growing adoption of AI technologies in China’s tech industry
In April, the CAC unveiled a set of draft rules specifically targeting ChatGPT-like services. The regulations require companies providing generative AI services in China to implement measures preventing discriminatory content, false information, and violations of personal privacy or intellectual property.
While emphasizing risk prevention, Beijing has expressed support for the development of the nascent AI sector. The recent quarterly meeting of the Politburo, the Chinese Communist Party’s No. 2 decision-making body, concluded that China must create an innovation ecosystem while managing associated risks effectively.
Zhihu’s introduction of an AI-driven search feature and ModelBest’s unveiling of their ChatGPT-like chatbot Luca illustrate the growing adoption of AI technologies in China’s tech industry. These developments align with China’s aim to regulate and oversee similar AI services while encouraging innovation in the sector.
