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When it comes to artificial intelligence (AI), the transition from “creating AI talk” to “creating AI work” represents not only a technical leap, but also the next frontier of commercialization. In an industry at a crossroads, can China, which has advantages in AI applications, technology and policy support, become a global test ground for such a transition?
Current language models are extremely good in the information domain, surpassing 99.99% of humans. But when it comes to the real world realm of “making AI works,” the entire field is primarily “desert” and massive explosive growth is still on the horizon, Wang Xingxing, CEO and founder of Chinese robotics startup Unitree, said at the 2025 inclusion meeting with the band in Shangay on Thursday.
What does “make AI work” mean? This refers to moving beyond the virtual realm of information into the physical world, participating in production and practical operations of the entire daily life.
For years, advances in AI have been symbolized by breakthroughs in large-scale models. Models such as ChatGpt and DeepSeek have achieved breakthroughs in content generation, information retrieval, and interactive dialogue. Whether companies use AI to draft reports to generate marketing copies or rely on regular users to access personalized information, all of these developments show the maturity of AI in the information domain.
But as the industry evolves, it moves at a crossroads until it empowers it from the information field to the physical field. “Creating AI works” has become an important next step. This transformation is essential as it opens new frontiers for commercializing AI. Conversational AI shows impressive capabilities, but the outlook for a sustainable business model remains uncertain.
In contrast, AI that “works” is directly linked to increased production efficiency, optimized labor costs, and the creation of new business formats, providing much clearer commercial value. Tech giants and startups around the world recognize that those who make breakthroughs in this sector will win initiatives in the next phase of AI development.
With this global competition to “create AI,” China has undoubtedly the unique potential to become a core testing ground.
First, the core of this possibility lies in the vast Chinese scenario of AI applications. No other country boasts such a large multi-tier application market.
Second, China's large domestic market creates the possibility of large-scale implementation of AI applications. This scale effect is unparalleled in other parts of the world.
Third, policy support provides a strong foundation. National strategies to promote smart manufacturing, digital transformation and the development of new quality productive capabilities provide robust policy assurances for integrating AI technology with real economies.
Together, these benefits lay a solid foundation for China to function as a test ground for “making AI.”
However, potential is not enough. In order for China to become a global testing ground for “making AI”, several important challenges need to be overcome. Technically, China still faces a gap between basic algorithms, core chips and high-end sensors. Without addressing these “chokepoint” issues, it is difficult for Chinese AI applications to establish long-term competitive advantages.
In terms of data, it balances usage and privacy protection, breaks down data silos, and security and compliance poses complex governance issues. Talent is another matter. China needs more groundbreaking scientists in basic theory and interdisciplinary experts who understand both AI technology and industrial applications. Such talent cannot be trained overnight.
Furthermore, external factors such as global technology competition and export control add challenges to this AI path.
In conclusion, the transition from AI to “functional” AI has already begun. This shift is not merely about changes in the technological path. Redefine the structure of global AI competition. Market benefits, industry foundations and policy support have ensured China's position in this race. Whether it can truly become a global core testing ground depends on China's ability to translate its benefits into a technological strength and a vibrant innovation ecosystem.
