BEIJING – Chinese tech behemoth Alibaba has announced the launch of its groundbreaking artificial intelligence (AI) tool called Tongyi Wanxiang, capable of generating images based on prompts in Chinese or English. The cloud division of Alibaba is behind the innovative product which enables users to generate various styles of imagery, such as sketches or 3D cartoons.

The availability of Tongyi Wanxiang for beta testing exclusively to enterprise customers in China represents Alibaba’s strategic move to target the business sector. This approach is driven by the cautious stance of technology giants towards generative AI products due to regulatory concerns. 

The AI tool will make high-quality generative AI imagery more accessible, stimulating the development of innovative AI art and creative expressions across various sectors, including eCommerce, gaming, design, and advertising. While regulatory concerns persist, Alibaba’s strategic focus on enterprise customers showcases its commitment to aligning with regulations. 

As the race to advance generative AI technology intensifies, both Chinese and American tech giants are keenly aware of the need to navigate regulatory landscapes effectively. Chinese authorities have already introduced regulations to govern deep synthesis technologies and the development of generative AI products.