Baidu, the Chinese master of artificial intelligence (AI), is like the Google of China. Just like Google, Baidu has wasted no time in incorporating cutting-edge generative AI features into its core services. People believe that this technology has the potential to completely change the way we search for and use information online. But Baidu’s use of AI doesn’t stop at search. They have implemented generative AI in various other areas to enhance user experience and create new business opportunities.
One fascinating application of Baidu’s generative AI is its use in completing a traditional Chinese ink art masterpiece that remained unfinished for over five decades. This artwork was left incomplete after the renowned artist passed away. But thanks to Baidu’s AI technology, this unfinished piece was finally brought to life.
Let’s talk about Ernie Bot, Baidu’s answer to ChatGPT. Ernie is the backbone of Baidu’s plan to enhance its products and services using generative AI. Unlike ChatGPT, Ernie has access to a knowledge graph, which is a structured database containing information and the connections between different data points. This allows Ernie to provide accurate and relevant information to users. Baidu’s intention behind this is to prevent AI models from making things up, also known as AI hallucinations.
Ernie sets itself apart from other generative AI models by its ability to generate pictures and videos, making it more than just a language model. Baidu is currently on version 3 of Ernie, with different models tailored for various applications.
Unlike its Western counterparts, such as Google and Microsoft’s Bing, Baidu has taken generative AI integration to the next level. Baidu uses generative AI to match user queries to paid advertisements and sponsored search results. This not only benefits advertisers by providing better targeting but also offers users more relevant advertising.
Baidu has also developed Wenxin Yige, an image generation model specifically designed to create traditional Chinese-style ink paintings. This tool can interpret traditional Chinese poetry and turn it into beautiful artwork. It has even completed an unfinished masterpiece by the late Chinese painter Lu Xiaoman.
Another application called Wenxin Baizhong simplifies the creation of industry-specific generative AI-powered search engines. Baidu developed all these applications, including Ernie, using PaddlePaddle, a distributed deep learning framework.
China is at the forefront of regulating generative AI’s use due to its potential power and risks. Ernie is one of the first Chinese generative AI platforms to be authorized for use, following the Government’s Interim Measures for Generative Artificial Intelligence Service Management. These regulations ensure that generative AI services adhere to specific principles and do not generate illegal or harmful content.
The regulation landscape for AI development in China differs significantly from the Western approach. Chinese regulators aim to balance the potential growth of AI with the need for regulation to address dangers and create a safe environment.
We’ll have to wait and see how these different approaches pan out in the future. But one thing’s for sure, the stakes are high, and the impact of AI technology is immense. So buckle up and stay tuned for what’s to come!
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