Baidu has launched new low-cost AI models, including the X1 reasoning model and an upgraded Ernie 4.5, to stay competitive in China’s AI race. The X1 model rivals DeepSeek but at a lower cost, while Ernie 4.5 reportedly outperforms GPT-4.5 in benchmarks.
Also Read: DeepSeek Fast-Tracks R2 AI Model After Global Impact of R1 Release
With DeepSeek disrupting the market with its open-source models, Baidu is responding by making Ernie AI open-source by June 30. Meanwhile, Tencent and Alibaba are also ramping up AI investments, intensifying China’s tech competition.
