In a remarkable display of technological prowess, China has surged forward in the realm of artificial intelligence, showcasing its commitment to tech self-reliance. Recently, AI-generated videos featuring U.S. presidential candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris in a fictional wedding went viral on Chinese social media. These videos, despite being removed for lacking proper AI tags, highlight the advanced capabilities of locally developed AI services.
The wave of AI-created fan art videos swept across Chinese video platforms shortly after OpenAI introduced its high-quality text-to-video service, Sora. Although Sora isn't publicly available yet, Chinese creators leveraged in-house AI tools like the Kling model from Kwai video service, Jimeng from TikTok, and Vidu with participation from Tsinghua University to produce impressive content. These tools enable the generation of everything from simple animations to complex cinematic sequences based on text prompts or user-uploaded images.
From January to November 2024, the number of generative AI models approved by the Chinese government skyrocketed from fewer than 50 to over 300. This rapid expansion is fueled by a combination of robust government support, a thriving tech ecosystem, and a growing pool of AI talent. The Chinese government's strategic policies have been pivotal, including increased funding for research, the establishment of AI research centers, and the implementation of supportive regulations aimed at fostering innovation.
AI is merely one facet of China's broader push towards technological self-reliance. Significant advancements in fields such as 5G, quantum computing, and supercomputing underscore the country's dedication to becoming a global leader in technology. The Chinese government emphasizes that continuous technological innovation is essential for China's long-term prosperity and security, positioning the nation at the forefront of the global tech landscape.
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New innovation drive: AI videos show China's tech self-reliance
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