Baidu responds to Sora and other rivals with MuseSteamer and AI-enhanced search features
The newly launched MuseSteamer model enables users to create short video clips, up to ten seconds in length, from still images. It comes in three variants: Turbo, Pro and Lite, each tailored to different levels of performance and processing capacity. However, unlike competitors offering consumer-facing tools, Baidu's model is currently restricted to business use, with no immediate plans for a public-facing version.
The release comes as global and Chinese firms alike continue to shift focus from conversational AI towards more complex media-generation models. In China, Baidu joins a growing list of companies including ByteDance, Tencent and Alibaba that have introduced their own AI-driven video tools.
In addition to the video generator, Baidu has overhauled its search engine interface. The updated platform now allows longer and more complex search inputs and integrates voice and image-based queries. The search results are curated using Baidu's proprietary AI technology to deliver more refined content.
The company has been under mounting pressure from domestic rivals, with ByteDance's Doubao and Tencent's Yuanbao AI chatbots gaining ground in popularity. Baidu's latest moves suggest a strategic pivot aimed at addressing both technological shifts and competitive threats within China's rapidly evolving AI sector.
Earlier in March this year, Baidu has announced the release of two new artificial intelligence (AI) models. The Chinese technology giant introduced Ernie 4.5, a foundation model that builds upon its predecessor, and Ernie X1, a reasoning-focused AI designed for deep thinking. Notably, Baidu has also made its AI-powered chatbot, Ernie Bot, free for users, eliminating any premium charges.
In its official statement, Baidu confirmed that Ernie 4.5 became accessible via the chatbot platform.
(With inputs from Reuters)
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
30 minutes ago
- Indian Express
Trump says ‘we'll see what happens' on China tariffs as midnight deadline looms
US President Donald Trump said on Monday he would 'see what happens' regarding a tariff deadline for China set for later in the day, Reuters reports. 'They've been dealing quite nicely. The relationship is very good with President Xi and myself,' Trump told reporters at a press conference. The United States and China have been in trade talks over tariffs that Trump reintroduced earlier this year as part of his administration's push to reduce the trade deficit and address what he says are unfair trade practices. The measures include higher duties on a range of Chinese goods, with further increases scheduled unless a deal is reached.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Ford's expansive EV puzzle: $5 billion investment with Louisville plant revamp and new T model — can it finally challenge China's electric car dominance?
Ford Motor Company has officially entered a new era with its ambitious $5 billion electric vehicle (EV) strategy, marked by a $2 billion revamp of its Louisville, Kentucky, assembly plant and the introduction of a brand-new electric T model. This bold move signals Ford's intent to aggressively compete in the fast-evolving global EV market, particularly taking on Chinese manufacturers that have surged ahead with affordable, mass-market electric cars. What is driving Ford's massive $5 billion EV investment? Ford's fresh push into electric vehicles centers on innovation and cost efficiency. The $2 billion upgrade to the Louisville plant aims to transform a decades-old gasoline-powered vehicle facility into a state-of-the-art EV production hub. Starting in 2027, the plant will roll out a midsize, four-door electric pickup that targets budget-conscious consumers both in the U.S. and abroad. Finance Value and Valuation Masterclass Batch-1 By CA Himanshu Jain View Program Finance Value and Valuation Masterclass - Batch 2 By CA Himanshu Jain View Program Finance Value and Valuation Masterclass - Batch 3 By CA Himanshu Jain View Program Artificial Intelligence AI For Business Professionals By Vaibhav Sisinity View Program Finance Value and Valuation Masterclass - Batch 4 By CA Himanshu Jain View Program Artificial Intelligence AI For Business Professionals Batch 2 By Ansh Mehra View Program CEO Jim Farley has emphasized that this 'new T model' represents a modern reinterpretation of Ford's legendary Model T legacy — an affordable, practical vehicle for the masses, but reimagined for the electric age. The revamped production lines will use novel assembly techniques, reducing parts by 20% and cutting assembly time by 15%. These efficiencies are designed to lower manufacturing costs and help Ford build electric vehicles that are not only profitable but also competitively priced. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Undo How does Ford's strategy challenge China's electric vehicle dominance? Chinese automakers have rapidly gained global market share by producing low-cost electric vehicles tailored for everyday buyers. Ford's investment signals a direct challenge to that dominance by aiming to bring similarly affordable EVs to market with American engineering and manufacturing. The company is betting on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology for the new T model, which is approximately 35% cheaper to produce than nickel- and cobalt-based batteries commonly used in EVs today. The battery packs will be integrated into the vehicle's floor, increasing interior space and ride comfort while maintaining safety standards. Live Events This strategic battery choice and manufacturing overhaul aim to close the price gap between electric and internal combustion vehicles, a key hurdle for wider EV adoption in the U.S. and globally. It also positions Ford to better compete with Chinese imports that benefit from lower production costs. What are the financial stakes for Ford's EV future? Despite the bold vision, Ford's EV division, known as Model e, reported a $1.3 billion loss in Q2 2025, highlighting the high stakes and upfront costs of transitioning to electric. However, losses per vehicle are shrinking as Ford ramps up production and refines its EV lineup. Ford's stock dipped slightly following the announcement, reflecting investor caution amid broader market volatility and intense competition. Yet, analysts see the Louisville plant revamp and new T model as crucial steps toward profitability and market relevance in an industry racing toward electrification. Why does Ford's new EV approach matter to consumers and the auto industry? Ford's commitment to affordable, value-driven EVs could be a game-changer for American consumers hesitant about high-priced electric vehicles. The Louisville plant transformation promises more accessible electric pickups, a segment traditionally dominated by gas-powered trucks. Moreover, Ford's strategy could reshape the auto industry's global competitive landscape. If successful, it might prompt other legacy automakers to adopt similar cost-cutting, innovation-focused approaches — escalating competition with Chinese EV manufacturers. What will the new Louisville plant produce and why does it matter? Starting in 2027, the revamped Louisville plant will roll out a midsize, four-door electric pickup truck aimed squarely at both American and global buyers. This pickup will harness lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries — a technology about 35% cheaper than traditional nickel- and cobalt-based cells — helping keep costs down while maintaining range and reliability. By embedding the battery pack into the vehicle floor, Ford engineers expect not only to maximize interior space but also to deliver a quieter, smoother ride. This truck is expected to be competitively priced, with industry sources suggesting a target around $30,000. That price point would make it one of the most affordable electric pickups in the market, designed to appeal to everyday drivers and fleet operators alike. How is Ford changing its manufacturing to build EVs more efficiently? A key innovation accompanying this production shift is Ford's new 'assembly tree' system. Unlike traditional linear assembly lines, this modular approach slashes the number of individual parts by 20% and reduces vehicle assembly time by 15%. By streamlining the process, Ford hopes to enhance quality, cut costs, and increase flexibility on the factory floor — vital advantages as the automaker races to keep pace with nimble EV startups and global rivals. This manufacturing overhaul fits within Ford's broader strategy to modernize operations. The company is also investing $3 billion in a dedicated battery plant in Michigan, aiming to secure domestic supply chains for its EV ambitions and reduce dependency on overseas components. What does this mean for workers and the local economy? The Louisville plant employs roughly 2,200 hourly workers, and Ford's investment is expected to preserve those jobs while creating new opportunities linked to EV technology and advanced manufacturing. For Kentucky — a state historically reliant on gasoline vehicle production — this pivot offers a significant economic boost and positions it as a hub for electric vehicle innovation. Local officials and labor leaders have welcomed Ford's commitment, emphasizing the potential to attract ancillary businesses and strengthen regional supply networks. How is Ford positioning itself amid growing EV competition? Despite a challenging second quarter in 2025, where Ford's EV division, Model e, reported a $1.3 billion loss, CEO Jim Farley remains optimistic. Farley has stressed that Ford is recalibrating its EV approach to focus on 'value and efficiency,' aiming to compete head-to-head with emerging Chinese EV manufacturers who have rapidly expanded their footprint globally. Ford's stock dipped slightly after the announcement, reflecting market caution around the financial hurdles inherent in such a sweeping transformation. Still, the company's strategic bet on affordable, profitable electric trucks highlights a clear intent to capture market share in a space rapidly evolving due to consumer demand, government incentives, and environmental regulations. Why are lithium iron phosphate batteries a game-changer for Ford? The choice of LFP batteries marks a strategic cost-saving measure for Ford. Unlike the more common nickel-cobalt-aluminum chemistries, LFP cells use abundant and less expensive materials, which not only lower production costs but also enhance battery longevity and safety. By integrating these batteries into a flat pack under the vehicle's floor, Ford engineers have also improved structural rigidity and weight distribution. This design contributes to better handling and energy efficiency, factors that consumers increasingly consider when choosing electric vehicles. Ford's nearly $2 billion commitment to electrify a historic Kentucky plant underscores a pivotal moment—not only for the company but for the broader auto industry. As the electric revolution accelerates, the automaker's success will depend on its ability to execute this ambitious strategy efficiently and at scale, delivering compelling, affordable electric vehicles that resonate with today's drivers worldwide. FAQs: Q1: What electric vehicle will Ford's Louisville plant produce? Ford's Louisville plant will build a midsize electric pickup truck starting in 2027. Q2: How is Ford improving electric vehicle production? Ford is using a new assembly tree system to reduce parts and speed up EV manufacturing.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
How this ‘first-ever' financial arrangement may have helped Nvidia and AMD secure licenses for selling AI chips in China
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Nvidia and AMD have received approval to sell their specially designed AI chips in China, but reportedly with an unusual condition. According to a new report, the Trump administration granted the export licenses after a " financial arrangement " was made. As part of this deal, both chipmakers have agreed to give the US government 15% of the revenue from their chip sales in China. Citing people familiar with the situation – including a US official – The Finanacial Times reported that the agreement was finalised last week. Nvidia will share 15% of revenues from its H20 chip sales, while AMD will provide the same percentage from its MI308 chip sales. The official noted that the administration has not yet decided how the funds will be used. The deal is a quid-pro-quo arrangement. Export control experts state that this is the first time a US company has agreed to pay a portion of its revenue to obtain export licenses, the report added. However, the agreement aligns with a broader pattern in the Trump administration, where companies are pressured to make concessions—such as domestic investments—to avoid tariffs and bring jobs and revenue to the U.S. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Top Urologist: Most Muscle Loss in Older Men Starts With This One Mistake primenutritionsecrets Undo The Financial Times reported that the Commerce Department began issuing H20 export licenses on Friday, just two days after Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang met with President Donald Trump. The US official confirmed that licenses for AMD's China chip have also been issued. Nvidia did not deny the arrangement, stating only, 'We follow rules the US government sets for our participation in worldwide markets.' Experts debate over Nvidia H20 chip sale to China While the US government has approved the sale of H20 AI chips to China, some experts have reportedly expressed concerns. It is being argued that H20 AI chips are a 'potent accelerator of China's frontier AI capabilities' and would ultimately be used by the Chinese military. However, Nvidia has refuted these claims, saying that they are 'misguided'. 'While we haven't shipped H20 to China for months, we hope export control rules will let America compete in China and worldwide. America cannot repeat 5G and lose telecommunication leadership. America's AI tech stack can be the world's standard if we race,' Nvidia said on Saturday. Microsoft Edge Gets a Major AI Upgrade with New Copilot Mode AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
