360 Security Technology and iFlytek Latest Firms to Release AI Models to the Chinese Public

On Sept 5, China's 360 Security Technology and iFlytek became the latest tech companies to publicly release their artificial intelligence (AI) models.

Unlike in other countries, China requires companies to submit security assessments and obtain clearance before AI products can be used by the general public. Authorities have recently stepped up efforts to assist companies developing AI, as the technology becomes more competitive with the US.

According to the state-backed Securities Times, Hefei-based iFlytek, best known for its voice recognition technology, announced the launch of its "Spark" AI model, while Beiing-based 360 Security Technology, best known for its antivirus software, announced the launch of its "Zhinao" AI model.

Last Thursday, Baidu Inc and SenseTime Group announced the release of ChatGPT-style chatbots to the market.