Alibaba Targets Robotics with New AI Models

Alibaba released a new family of artificial intelligence models on 16th June designed to control robots and autonomous machines, a step that reflects a wider industry shift from text-based chatbots to AI agents that can take physical action.

The models, part of Alibaba's Tongyi Qianwen series, are trained on sensor data, motion commands, and simulation environments. Alibaba Cloud said the largest of the models can process visual, audio, and touch signals simultaneously, enabling it to guide a robotic arm through assembly tasks or navigate a warehouse floor without relying on pre-programmed rules. The company plans to offer the models through its cloud platform and has already tested them with manufacturing and logistics partners in China.

Alibaba's launch comes as technology companies across the board are pushing beyond chatbots. Google, OpenAI, and Meta have all recently unveiled models that can complete multi-step tasks such as booking travel or controlling software interfaces. Alibaba's robotics focus places it closer to Amazon's ambitions with warehouse automation and Tesla's Optimus programme.

China's robotics market is expanding rapidly, driven by labour shortages and government subsidies aimed at automating factories. Alibaba has also been rebuilding its AI credibility after a turbulent few years of restructuring. The cloud division, which houses AI research, is seen as the company's main growth engine as e-commerce growth slows.

Alibaba did not disclose pricing for the new models but said they would be available in open-source form for research and light commercial use, with enterprise licensing fees scaled by robot count. Its shares rose 1.8 percent in Hong Kong trading.