Two years ago, Anhui demonstrated foresight by releasing its "Several Policies on Building an Innovation and Application Hub for General Artificial Intelligence," taking a solid first step in the race to develop its AI industry.

Now, this policy is undergoing an iteration and upgrade.

Recently, the Version 2.0 policy was grandly unveiled (the "Several Policies on Building an Innovation and Application Hub for General Artificial Intelligence (Version 2.0)"). Building upon the framework of Version 1.0, it places greater emphasis on scenario-driven application, aims to achieve overall improvement through breakthroughs in key areas, and accelerates the process of bringing general artificial intelligence into practical use. 

Artificial intelligence is a strategic technology leading the future and serves as the core driving force behind the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation. Anhui's progression from Policy 1.0 to Policy 2.0 represents an advancement aimed at promoting the deep development of its general artificial intelligence industry across all fronts. 

Currently, the province has attracted 1,076 AI implementation projects with planned investments totaling 403.9 billion yuan, marking year-on-year increases of 46.8% and 34.6%, respectively. There are 894 enterprises above designated size specializing in AI and 12,000 related businesses within the industrial chain across the province.

This impressive performance is the inevitable outcome of precise policy support.

The Version 1.0 policies successfully met expectations and played a crucial leading role in promoting 'attracting investment and talent' and industrial cultivation within Anhui's AI sector. It was precisely the forward-looking layout and continuous empowerment provided by Policy 1.0 that enabled Anhui's AI industry to experience rapid growth.  

The most prominent feature of Policy 2.0 is its focus on "real-world application scenarios" as a core mechanism. For the first time, it proposes "establishing AI scenario innovation projects," supporting the opening of opportunities in areas such as "AI+" technological innovation, industrial upgrading, public services, and social welfare. It also encourages the creation of typical use cases around dominant sub-sectors. 

The Version 2.0 policy proposes hosting a national competition for innovative applications of general artificial intelligence, aiming to establish it as a renowned nationwide event. For winning projects that demonstrate strong innovation capabilities, broad market prospects, significant application results, and are commercialized and implemented within Anhui, provincial and municipal governments will coordinate relevant funds to provide entrepreneurial support.

Unlike other provinces focusing on "scientific breakthroughs" and "original innovation" at the front end of R&D, Anhui places greater emphasis on practical implementation and application.

Anhui has chosen a path that is closer to industry needs and prioritizes tangible results.

Anhui is driving progress from the 'demand side.' It promotes more organizations to open up application scenarios and adopt new technologies, thereby facilitating the validation and use of artificial intelligence in developing new products. 

Fundamentally, businesses must genuinely want to use AI and proactively apply it; only by unleashing this internal drive can technology truly move beyond the lab to serve industries and benefit people.

Today, Anhui's strides along the general artificial intelligence industry track grow increasingly confident and powerful. Looking ahead, more stories of AI integrating with industries and technology blending with people's livelihoods are worth anticipating.

Source: anhuinews.com