China's Baidu adds OpenClaw AI into search app for 700 million users ahead of Lunar New Year

BEIJING — Baidu is set to integrate the popular AI tool OpenClaw directly into its main smartphone application, providing its vast user base with immediate access to advanced features. As of Friday, users who choose to opt in will be able to interact with the AI agent via the search app, enabling them to perform various tasks such as scheduling appointments, organizing files, and even writing code. The rise of AI tools like OpenClaw has been notable, as they significantly streamline everyday tasks, including email management and online service usage. This powerful AI was previously accessible only through messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. Now, major Chinese tech firms, including Alibaba and Tencent, have enabled their users to utilize OpenClaw within their own cloud systems. Baidu boasts an impressive 700 million monthly active users for its search app, and it is also expanding OpenClaw’s functionality across its e-commerce and other services. This strategic rollout comes just ahead of the Lunar New Year, a crucial period for Chinese internet companies striving to attract new users and capitalize on their AI innovations. In a similar vein, Alibaba has integrated its AI chatbot Qwen into its e-commerce platforms, including Taobao and the travel site Fliggy. The company reported over 120 million consumer orders processed through the chatbot in just six days leading up to February 11. Qwen users can now receive tailored product recommendations and complete payments seamlessly through Alipay, eliminating the need to switch between various applications for finalizing purchases. Despite the enthusiasm surrounding AI agents like OpenClaw, cybersecurity experts, including those from CrowdStrike, have cautioned users about the risks associated with granting unrestricted access to enterprise systems. As AI technology continues to evolve, balancing convenience with security remains a critical concern.