Baidu CEO Robin Li remains confident in the company's AI investments, even amid recent challenges. Despite a significant 36% drop in Baidu’s stock price this year, Li echoes the stark “winter is coming” warning from 'Game of Thrones' following their first-quarter losses.
In response to these financial setbacks, Baidu has implemented cost-cutting measures such as mandating economy class for flights, restricting stays in five-star hotels, and minimizing the use of office supplies like paper towels and cups.
AI represents a promising revenue source for Baidu, particularly as growth in its core search business slows down. Li expressed optimism about AI's potential to improve lives, a sentiment he shared during his address at the sixth World Internet Conference (WIC) in Wuzhen, Zhejiang Province, China.
At the conference, Li articulated a visionary outlook on AI:
“Artificial intelligence will not destroy human beings but will give people eternal life. Everything every person has said and done, even people’s memories, emotions and consciousness, can be digitally stored on network disks or the cloud.
Machines can learn people’s way of thinking. When there are new problems, people can talk to future generations across time and space via technology.”
While realizing this vision might be far off, it provides captivating insight into the potential trajectory of AI from a leading figure in tech.
One key area of Baidu’s AI investment is self-driving cars, particularly in the emerging market of robotaxis. The company has already launched public trials in Hunan Province with a fleet of 45 autonomous taxis. These self-driving vehicles not only represent a technological opportunity but also necessitate updates in urban transport infrastructure, especially the supporting software.
Beyond self-driving technology, Baidu is expanding its global influence by sharing AI expertise. For instance, Baidu collaborates in the development of Intel’s Nervana neural processor. However, increasing scrutiny from the US regarding Chinese influence in Western industries might hinder such partnerships.
China's ambitious goals in AI growth are underscored by the State Council's roadmap to becoming a global AI leader by 2030, intensifying competition with the US. The government's support signifies why Li remains optimistic about Baidu's continued investment in AI.
As Baidu continues its AI advancements, the cultural impact of innovative AI solutions only becomes more apparent. For example, the introduction of concepts such as the AI Santa Hug effect shows the blending of AI technology with meaningful human experiences during festive times, highlighting a brighter future for AI applications.
The Future of AI in Video Content Creation
As digital content continues to evolve, video remains the most impactful way to tell stories, share messages, and spark emotion. Yet traditional video production can be slow, expensive, and technically demanding. That’s why creators are increasingly turning to tools like AI video generator to simplify the process.
With Dreamlux, you can turn a single photo into a high-quality animated video—no editing skills or expensive software required. Whether it’s a product showcase, a personal story, or a festive animation, AI makes video creation fast, fun, and accessible.
And during the holiday season, there’s a particularly heartwarming way to spread joy and connection—through a magical Santa hug.
Feel the Festive Warmth with AI Santa Hug
Nothing captures the spirit of Christmas quite like a warm, heartfelt embrace. The AI Santa Hug effect lets you create a touching animated video where Santa Claus gives your character a big, cheerful hug.
It’s perfect for sending holiday greetings to loved ones, creating emotional social media moments, or adding a festive twist to your family content. Just one image is all it takes to generate a video that feels personal, joyful, and full of holiday cheer.
Whether for fun or heartfelt messaging, this AI-powered feature is a delightful way to make your content feel truly magical.
How to Create an AI Santa Hug Video on Dreamlux
Bringing your Santa hug moment to life is quick and easy:
- Go to https://dreamlux.ai and click on "Templates"
- Select "Free AI Santa Hug"
- Upload your photo (ideally a front-facing image)
- Click "Create" and let the AI do the magic
Within minutes, you’ll have a warm, animated holiday video that’s ready to share with friends, family, or followers. Spread kindness, laughter, and love—with just one click.
