Baidu's Ernie Bot Approved for Public Release in China

Chinese tech giant Baidu has received approval from Beijing to release its ChatGPT-like Ernie bot to the public, indicating a more relaxed policy stance on artificial intelligence. Initially limited to business partners and a waitlist, Ernie bot is now accessible without the need for a Chinese ID number. Chinese companies have been announcing generative AI projects following the popularity of OpenAI's ChatGPT, which is not officially allowed in China due to internet restrictions. China's "interim regulation" for generative AI services, effective since August 15, allows companies to develop AI tech as long as it is not available to the mass public. Baidu CEO Robin Li sees the new rules as pro-innovation and is optimistic about a better regulatory environment.