China's search giant Baidu yesterday took another step to share its technology and artificial intelligence with developers to gradually open some of its key areas, such as the self-driving systems and engine data simulation.
It also announced the acquisition of smart voice detection and recognitions start-up company KITT AI for an undisclosed amount of money at the Baidu AI Developer Conference in Beijing. The purchase is aimed at complementing its conversational artificial intelligence platform, DuerOS.
"Baidu is very well equipped and capable of pouring effort and resources into artificial intelligence and we're committed to building a solid future by working closely with third-party developers and collaborators," said Lu Qi, Baidu vice president, group chairman and chief operating officer.
Baidu showcased dozens of new technologies and capabilities at the AI Developer Conference, and also joined the Yangtze River Industry Fund to support the training of artificial intelligence talents and support the industry development.
The company also announced a range of partnerships with automakers Ford and Daimler as well as 13 domestic car makers, including FAW Group Co, Chery Automobile, Changan Automobile Group alongside other research institutions and mapping companies to support the Apollo project.
The first batch of 15 partners in the autonomous driving project also includes Great Wall Motors.
