Baidu’s ChatGPT-like Ernie bot Now Available to the Public
Chinese tech giant Baidu announced on Thursday that its Ernie bot, similar to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, is now accessible to the general public. This move signifies a more relaxed policy stance on artificial intelligence in China.
Initial Access Limited to Business Partners and Waitlist Members
Baidu initially released the Ernie bot on March 16, granting access only to the company’s business partners and individuals who had joined a waitlist. The waitlist amassed over 1.2 million people before Baidu stopped disclosing the numbers. However, as of Wednesday, even HaberTusba was able to access the Ernie bot without the prior requirement of entering a Chinese ID number.
Chinese Companies Embrace Generative AI Projects
Chinese companies have been quick to announce generative AI projects following the global popularity of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. However, ChatGPT is not officially available in China due to restrictions on Google and Facebook access.
China’s Stance on Domestic Technology Development
Despite tight control over technology, China’s top leaders have emphasized the importance of developing domestic technology, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence. On August 15, China’s “interim regulation” for managing generative AI services took effect. The rules stated that they would not apply to companies developing AI tech as long as it was not available to the general public. This approach is more relaxed compared to an earlier draft that suggested regulations would apply even during the research stage.
Increased Regulation on Personal Data Protection and Network Security
China has generally tightened regulations on personal data protection and network security. However, Baidu CEO Robin Li described the new rules as “more pro-innovation than regulation” during an earnings call, expressing optimism about a more favorable regulatory environment.
Other Chinese Companies Embracing Generative AI
In addition to Baidu, other Chinese companies like Alibaba have been unveiling various generative AI products. Kunlun Tech, the parent company of Opera web browser, recently released an AI-powered chatbot and search engine called Tiangong AI search to the public. This move is comparable to Microsoft Bing’s integration with OpenAI, as Tiangong also provides internet links alongside search results.
Previously, most AI products in China were limited to internal use by corporate partners. However, the underlying technology of these chatbots compared to ChatGPT’s remains unclear. Although they share similar basic functionality, Ernie bot and Tiangong primarily operate in Chinese and have standalone iPhone apps.
Despite the launch of an iPhone app in May, ChatGPT’s popularity has declined since June, according to a report by Bank of America.
