Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area granted China’s
first ID card to the AI virtual idol Yuri. That same day, the district released the
Implementation Plan for Accelerating the Construction of a City-Wide Artificial
Intelligence Hub (2026–2027), outlining a range of incentives across multiple fields.
Yuri is a virtual idol created using generative AI technology and has now officially
established a presence in the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area. As
a “digital resident,” Yuri will take part in public safety promotion, environmental
advocacy, and other local initiatives.
Beyond this pioneering digital identity milestone, the AI Development Outlook for the
Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area is also gaining attention. The
newly released Implementation Plan sets clear targets for the end of 2027, including:
building no fewer than 10 benchmark smart scenario complexes, deploying 100
vertical AI models, curating high-quality industry datasets, attracting 1,000 core AI
industry enterprises, engaging 10,000 top-tier independent developers and
innovators, and substantially expanding the scale and influence of the intelligent economy
In addition, the district will roll out significant financial incentives. Plans include
developing a smart terminal industry district, an AI glasses innovation center, and an
AI toy creative hub, with rewards of up to CNY 2 million for breakout consumer
electronics products. The area will also establish two national pilot bases for AI in
healthcare and automotive manufacturing, along with pilot and mass-production
facilities for humanoid robots. Additionally, service platforms may receive support of
up to CNY 20 million.
