Baidu launched the upgraded Ernie Health Manager during its recent AI Day event. This initiative forms part of the company’s broader strategy to apply AI capabilities to the healthcare sector, which it identifies as a significant growth area.
The move underscores Baidu’s focus on diversifying its business beyond online marketing and into cutting-edge AI applications. The company positions the new tool as a 24-hour 'all-round family doctor'.
Baidu also introduced the 'Atomic Plan' alongside the health manager. This plan will open over 100 information queries and AI application capabilities to the healthcare industry for free.
The company aims to lower the barrier for AI entry in the medical field, accelerating the adoption of AI-driven health solutions and promoting greater health inclusion. Initial reports noted no significant market reaction to the announcements.