Zhihu, China’s popular question-and-answer platform akin to Quora, has introduced a new generative artificial intelligence (AI) feature named Zhida, which translates to “direct response” in Mandarin. This innovative tool is designed to respond to user inquiries by utilizing Zhihu’s extensive content archive to automatically search, summarize, and generate answers. The feature was unveiled by Zhihu’s founder, chairman, and CEO Zhou Yuan during an event in Beijing.
With this launch, Zhihu joins the growing list of Chinese tech companies that have integrated generative AI into their services. Generative AI, supported by algorithms capable of creating new content such as text, images, audio, code, simulations, and videos, has rapidly become a vital component of online consumer tools in China.
Zhihu’s move follows the footsteps of Shenzhen-based Tencent Holdings, an early investor in Zhihu. Tencent integrated its Hunyuan large language model (LLM), the technology behind services like ChatGPT, into over 180 of its services last year. This includes applications such as Tencent Meeting, Tencent Docs, and the super app WeChat, along with its online advertising business.
Similarly, Alibaba Group Holding, which owns the South China Morning Post, embedded its Tongyi Qianwen LLM into DingTalk, the company’s enterprise collaboration app, to enhance workplace communications. As of May, Alibaba reported that the Tongyi Qianwen LLM is utilized by over 90,000 corporate clients in China.
During Zhihu’s first-quarter earnings call, chief financial officer Wang Han highlighted that AI has been instrumental in streamlining the company’s operations. AI has improved tasks such as reviewing platform data, helping users create high-quality content, and driving increased website traffic. “In 2024, our investment in AI will focus on the application layer,” Wang stated. “Our advances in AI have enabled us to enhance operating efficiency across our existing businesses.”
Wang also noted that the AI-powered search function introduced in March has already resulted in double-digit growth for Zhihu’s apps, improving metrics like user retention and engagement.
Zhihu’s adoption of generative AI through its Zhida feature demonstrates the company’s commitment to leveraging advanced technologies to enhance user experience and operational efficiency, keeping pace with industry leaders in China’s tech sector.
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