Baidu’s ERNIE Large Model 4.0 gives AI boost to Baidu Maps, autonomous driving tech

Beijing (Gasgoo)- On October 17, during Baidu World 2023, CEO Robin Li unveiled the latest iteration of the ERNIE Large Model, the 4.0 version, and introduced over ten new AI-native applications, including enhanced search capabilities and a new mapping system.

Photo credit: Baidu

Robin Li announced the official release of the ERNIE Large Model 4.0 and initiated an invitation-only testing phase. This version marks the most powerful ERNIE model to date, offering comprehensive improvements in understanding, generation, logical reasoning, and memory capabilities.

During the conference, Li demonstrated the four major capabilities of the ERNIE 4.0 and their application scenarios. In terms of understanding, the model exhibited its ability to comprehend complex prompts, such as disordered sentences, vague intentions, and implicit meanings. Regarding generation, Li showcased how ERNIE quickly generated a set of advertising posters, five ad copies, and a marketing video in just a few minutes based on a single source image. Additionally, he demonstrated the model's logical reasoning through scenarios like solving math problems and summarizing knowledge points. ERNIE's memory capacity was highlighted as it generated a thousand-word novel, complete with characters and plot details. Finally, a digital doctor aided a patient in interpreting a drug manual, showcasing the model's comprehensive application of these four abilities.

The true value of the large model lies in its rich ecosystem of AI-native applications. Baidu Maps, for instance, has transformed into a more user-friendly travel guide and super assistant by utilizing understanding and memory capabilities. Users can simply express their needs, and the map can tap into thousands of service interfaces to recommend restaurants, compare multiple locations, and provide travel suggestions.

Robin Li stressed that future AI-native applications will be multimodal and extend beyond the digital realm, significantly influencing the physical world. Autonomous driving serves as a prime example of how large AI models can reshape the physical world. ERNIE enables Baidu's autonomous driving capabilities to surpass conventional systems, enabling more intelligent handling of complex scenarios and broader spatiotemporal coverage. Currently, Baidu's autonomous driving service platform (Robotaxi), Apollo Go, has provided over 4 million rides, establishing itself as the world's largest autonomous driving service provider.