Hong Kong is testing out its own ChatGPT-style tool as OpenAI takes steps
Hong Kong’s government is currently in the process of testing a ChatGPT-style tool designed for its employees. The goal is to eventually make this tool available to the general public. This move comes after OpenAI implemented additional measures to restrict access from certain regions, including China.
Development of the ChatGPT-style tool
The artificial intelligence program, named the “document editing co-pilot application for civil servants,” is currently being tested by the government. The innovation minister, Sun Dong, mentioned on a radio show that this tool is intended to enhance the capabilities of civil servants. The system was developed by a generative AI research and development center in collaboration with several universities.
The primary functions of the program include assisting in drafting, translating, and summarizing documents to improve the efficiency of civil servants. According to the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer, the program’s database and language model were independently created by the research center.
Future Plans and Capabilities
Sun Dong stated that the tool is expected to offer features such as graphics and video design in the future. While the full extent of its capabilities compared to ChatGPT is yet to be determined, industry players and the government are set to contribute to its further development.
Given that Hong Kong faces challenges in attracting support from major tech companies like Microsoft and Google, the government has taken the initiative to kickstart such projects, as mentioned by Sun.
AI Landscape in China and Hong Kong
China and the United States are currently engaged in a race for AI dominance, with China aiming to lead the global AI market by 2030. However, regions including China, Hong Kong, and Macao are not included in the list of “supported countries and territories” for OpenAI.
Despite being excluded from OpenAI’s supported regions, Hong Kong is making strides in AI development. With the expertise of AI companies in the city, there is optimism that Hong Kong could bridge the technological gap and potentially align with global standards in AI.
Localizing AI for Hong Kong
A locally developed AI program holds the potential to address local language nuances and specific issues effectively. While it may not surpass leading AI models, such as ChatGPT, a Hong Kong-based AI solution could offer tailored responses that resonate with the local population.
AI Landscape in China
Chinese tech giants like Alibaba and Baidu have introduced Chinese-language AI models, compliant with China’s strict censorship regulations. The development of AI models in China is closely monitored to ensure alignment with the government’s guidelines and ideologies.
Despite advancements in AI technology, certain applications, like SenseChat, are restricted in providing information on politically sensitive topics, highlighting the constraints faced by AI models in different regions.
