China's state-run Xinhua news agency has introduced artificial intelligence (AI) news anchors, developed in collaboration with Chinese search engine Sogou. The AI presenters simulate the voice, facial movements, and gestures of real-life broadcasters, and are designed to work 'tirelessly' 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The digital anchors, based on real Xinhua presenters, debuted during China's annual World Internet Conference in Wuzhen. One AI anchor, dressed in a red tie and pin-striped suit, said, 'I can be endlessly copied and present at different scenes to bring you the news.' An English-speaking AI anchor added, 'I look forward to bringing you brand new news experiences.'
According to Xinhua, the technology uses machine learning to create a 'lifelike image instead of a cold robot.' The AI systems can be customised for different industries, such as book reading apps. Wang Xiaochuan, head of Sogou, suggested that in the future, the technology could be used for personalised storytelling, like 'your parents telling the story.'
While many Chinese viewers were impressed by the AI anchors, some expressed unease. Comments on social media included 'a little bit horrible' and 'really scary.' Xinhua acknowledged the limitations of the AI, noting that it can only speak as a news host when provided with text.
The launch comes amid concerns over China's use of technology for surveillance and control. At the same conference, attendees were identified by facial recognition during security checks, and companies discussed cooperating with law enforcement on social credit blacklists. Huang Kunming, head of the Communist Party's propaganda department, stated, 'China stands ready to safeguard the sound order of cyberspace.'
