Hong Kong's government is currently testing an AI tool similar to ChatGPT for its employees, with plans to eventually make it available to the public. The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry revealed that the program, named 'document assistance application for civil servants,' is being trialed to enhance its capabilities. Developed by a generative AI research center led by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology in collaboration with other universities, the tool aims to offer functions like graphics and video design in the future.
While the extent of its capabilities compared to ChatGPT remains uncertain, the government is optimistic about its potential. The model's future development will involve industry players and government collaboration, as Hong Kong seeks to advance its AI initiatives independently due to challenges in attracting support from major tech companies like Microsoft and Google.
Notably, OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, has taken steps to block access from certain regions, including China, Hong Kong, and Macao. The reasons for excluding these territories from its services have not been explicitly stated, but users attempting to connect from these areas may face restrictions. This move aligns with China's strict internet censorship policies, which limit access to foreign websites and applications.
In response to these restrictions, Chinese tech giants such as Alibaba and Baidu have introduced their own AI models tailored to the local market. These models must adhere to China's censorship regulations, as demonstrated by the training of an AI chatbot on President Xi Jinping's doctrine by China's cyberspace academy.
As the global race for AI supremacy intensifies, Hong Kong's exploration of AI tools reflects its commitment to technological innovation and self-reliance in the face of evolving geopolitical dynamics.
