Investing.com -- Alibaba Group Holdings Ltd ADR (NYSE:BABA) has unveiled an updated version of its artificial intelligence (AI) assistant, Quark, which is powered by the company's advanced Qwen-based reasoning model. Quark is the first application within Alibaba's general user-facing businesses to fully utilize its proprietary foundation models, representing a significant step in Alibaba's AI strategy.
The new version of Quark boasts enhanced capabilities including an AI chatbot, deep thinking and research, and task execution, all integrated into a user-friendly interface. It is designed to handle a wide variety of tasks, from academic research to document drafting, image generation, presentations, medical diagnostics, travel planning, and problem-solving.
Quark enables users to ask complex, multi-part questions and provides more in-depth information on a topic directly within the search engines. It stands out among other AI chatbots for its ability to provide real-time, precise, and comprehensive information from multiple online sources, with reference links included in the responses for easy verification and further exploration.
The revamped Quark aims to redefine the traditional search experience by transforming it into an all-encompassing AI super assistant. It is designed to meet the work-life needs of more than 200 million users in China.
Wu Jia, CEO of Quark and Vice President of Alibaba Group, said, "This upgraded version of Quark is just the beginning. As our model capabilities continue to evolve, we envision Quark as a gateway to endless possibilities where users can explore everything with AI."
Alibaba Group recently announced plans to increase investments in three core areas of its AI strategy over the next three years: infrastructure for AI and cloud computing, development of foundational models and AI-native applications, and AI integration across existing businesses. Eddie Wu, CEO of Alibaba Group, highlighted the potential of integrating large AI models to enhance search, productivity, content creation, and workplace efficiency.
Originally launched in 2016 as a web browser within Alibaba Group, Quark has grown into a leading AI-powered information services platform. It currently has the largest user base for AI search in the market, boasting over 200 million users in China.
By transforming Quark into an intuitive AI super assistant, Alibaba aims to leverage its foundation models to further improve end-user experiences. This is part of its ongoing effort to turn innovations into practical daily applications. The upgraded Quark will gradually be made available to all users, starting with a pilot launched today.