Ant Group Tests AI Agent ‘Abao’ in Alipay Super App
By Sivam
Ant Group is testing ‘Abao,’ an AI agent for its Alipay super app, allowing users to perform tasks like ride-hailing and fund purchases via text or voice. This could redefine mobile AI assistants.
Ant Group is internally testing a new AI agent interface, codenamed “Abao,” for its Alipay super app. This significant update could establish a new benchmark for AI assistants in mobile applications, especially given Alipay’s user base of over a billion.
Abao’s Capabilities
- Users can interact with Abao via text or voice commands.
- Tasks include practical services like ride-hailing, coffee orders, and food delivery.
- The AI will also handle asset-management functions, such as facilitating fund purchases, with user approval.
The testing is currently internal, with no public launch date finalized yet.
Strategic AI Focus
This initiative highlights Ant Group’s increased focus on AI, following regulatory challenges in 2020 that impacted its planned IPO and led to tighter regulations on its lending business.
Competitor Tencent is also developing a similar AI agent prototype for its WeChat super app, signaling a broader industry trend towards integrated AI assistants.
Broader AI Ambitions
Ant Group previously showcased a humanoid robot capable of medical consultations and basic kitchen tasks last year, further demonstrating its commitment to AI innovation beyond its core financial services.