Global sinologists explore Tencent's AI innovations

Video by Marina Vilchinskaia

Renowned sinologists from over 10 countries, including the United States, Germany, Italy, Vietnam, and Malaysia, recently gathered at Tencent’s Binhai headquarters as part of the Ninth World Conference on Sinology, which was held in Shenzhen from Thursday to Saturday.

Attendees take pictures during the opening ceremony. Liu Xudong

The visit offered a deep dive into how cutting-edge digital technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), is revolutionizing cultural preservation, research, and societal development.

The sinologists experienced immersive exhibitions and heard about digital technology practices that underscore the immense potential of AI in cultural inheritance and socioeconomic growth. The consensus was clear: AI is not just a tool for innovation but a powerful ally in the global pursuit of knowledge and cultural preservation.

During a sharing and communication session, Tencent showcased its innovative projects, including the creation of an immersive VR experience space for Cave 285 of the Mogao Grottoes, an online research platform for oracle bone studies, and the use of gaming technology to digitize the Beijing Central Axis, aiding its successful UNESCO World Heritage listing. These initiatives highlighted how digital technology can bring ancient cultures to life for modern audiences.

Giray Fidan, a Turkish sinologist and professor at Ankara Haci Bayram Veli University, was particularly impressed. “I have seen these technologies in Dunhuang before, which is very spectacular. Today I know it was made by Tencent,” Fidan said. “AI is a tool that can help us accumulate knowledge and improve research efficiency, and also has a great contribution to the protection of cultural relics.”

Sinologists from around the world tour an exhibition on Chinese history and Chinese modernization in Shenzhen's Bao'an District. Courtesy of the organizer

The event also highlighted how digital platforms like web dramas, online literature, and online games are becoming new conduits for the global dissemination of Chinese culture. Games such as “Black Myth: Wukong” and “King of Glory” have integrated rich traditional Chinese cultural elements, fostering a deeper understanding of Chinese history and culture among international gamers.

A Tencent employee shares AI innovations with sinologists visiting the company. Courtesy of the organizer

Professor Robert Chard from the University of Oxford noted, “China has a profound historical and cultural heritage. In recent years, through digital technology, Chinese culture has received more international attention. Games are a good medium of communication, and many British children have learned who Cao Cao — a Chinese historical personage — is through games.”

A launch ceremony for a Sinology postdoctoral program takes place during the conference. Courtesy of the organizer

Beyond cultural preservation, Tencent also shared its AI applications across various industries. For instance, Tencent Meeting’s AI noise reduction technology has significantly improved the clarity of speech for hearing aid users by 85%, making these devices more accessible and affordable.

In collaboration with Shenzhen University, Tencent Cloud has developed an intelligent early warning miniprogram for goose diseases, boosting the survival rate of the Shantou lion-head goose in Guangdong Province. These technologies have also been applied to the breeding of Chishui black-bone chickens in Guizhou Province.

Anil Paudel, a Nepalese doctoral student from the Renmin University of China who has been living and studying in China for nine years, expressed his admiration for China’s digital lifestyle. “Chinese technology is so cool. Palm payment and AI farming are both very novel and interesting and have already been applied in daily life,” he said.

German sinologist Cord Eberspächer, from the University of Bonn, lauded Tencent’s commitment to “value for users, tech for good.” He emphasized the tangible benefits of AI technologies and hopes that technology companies like Tencent can continue developing more new technologies and applications.