Generative artificial intelligence in China: a rapidly expanding technological revolution

Generative artificial intelligence (AI), a technology that enables the creation of textual, visual, audio and other content, is developing rapidly in China. With applications ranging from artistic creation to scientific research, not forgetting improved business services, this technology is becoming a strategic pillar of innovation. At the forefront of patent filings and research initiatives, China is positioning itself as a major player on the global generative AI scene, consolidating its ambition for technological leadership.

China leads the way in generative AI patent applications

China has been investing heavily in AI for several years, particularly in generative applications. According to the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), China has filed more patents than any other country in the field of AI over the past decade, accounting for around 60% of worldwide filings.

The patent landscape in China is dominated by large companies such as Baidu, Tencent and Alibaba. These companies are working closely with universities and research centres to develop new applications for generative AI. The synergy between the private sector, academic institutions and the government creates a favourable environment for rapid innovation.

The role of Chinese companies in generative AI

Tech giants such as Baidu, Huawei and Tencent play a central role in China’s generative AI ecosystem. Baidu, for example, has developed its own language model, Ernie, which aspires to rival Western models such as GPT. This model is used for a variety of applications, including automatic content generation, translation and the creation of intelligent chatbots.

Emerging uses and applications of generative AI

Advances in generative AI in China are finding applications in many sectors of the economy.  In marketing, for example, Chinese companies are exploiting generative AI to create tailor-made advertising campaigns tailored to consumer behaviour and preferences. These applications enable greater automation and optimisation of production costs. Huawei is integrating generative AI into its cloud infrastructures, offering solutions for automating processes such as generating reports or creating personalised content.

AI and the cultural and creative industries

AI is also being used in the cultural and creative industries. Tencent has invested in generative AI applications for entertainment, such as script creation and virtual art. In media and entertainment, platforms such as iQiyi and Bilibili use AI models to create content tailored to user preferences, such as animated series or podcasts. There are numerous projects and tests of specific applications, which are gradually being rolled out.

AI, education and scientific research

In the education sector, generative AI is being exploited to develop personalised learning tools, such as chatbots capable of proposing exercises tailored to the level of each student. Applications in the medical field are also promising: AI-based diagnostic systems assist doctors in interpreting medical images or generating complex clinical reports. Start-ups such as SenseTime are exploring applications in the health and finance sectors.

Conclusion: A promising future for generative AI in China

Generative AI represents a strategic opportunity for China, which is establishing itself as a world leader in this field. With massive investment in research, a dynamic technology development ecosystem and applications with high economic potential, China is shaping the future of generative AI. By continuing on this trajectory, China could redefine industry standards, play a central role in the evolution of artificial intelligence on a global scale and make it an asset of its economic and technological power.