Alibaba executive sees ‘explosive growth’ in AI applications in China in 2025

AI models’ growing capabilities “have created new opportunities for AI applications”, said Liu Weiguang, senior vice-president of Alibaba’s cloud computing unit, at an event hosted by the company in Beijing, which began on Wednesday.

The four-day Alibaba Cloud AI Dynamics fair has drawn dozens of exhibitors showcasing their latest AI-empowered products. One of the most popular booths belonged to Robam Appliances, a cooking equipment maker whose “AI-powered” kitchen devices captivated visitors. A range hood automatically adjusted the extractor fan’s speed, while a steam oven modified cooking times by “looking” at the ingredients.

While China still trails the US in model capabilities, its strength lies in AI applications. Alibaba Cloud’s event showed how AI can be used in everything from eyeglasses to cars, video gaming, education, office solutions and robotics, giving hundreds of visitors a glimpse of the future.