BABA(US:BABA) 硬AI·2025-09-30 05:52Core Insights - Alibaba is strategically reallocating top talent towards AI foundational model research, with a focus on multimodal interaction as a key area for future breakthroughs [2][3][5] Talent and Resource Allocation - The recent transfer of AI expert Xu Zhuhong to Alibaba's Tongyi Laboratory signifies a shift from consumer-facing applications to core foundational research [4][9] - Xu's move is part of a broader strategy to concentrate resources on foundational model capabilities, reflecting a prioritization of deep technological advancements over surface-level application innovations [9] Strategic Focus on Multimodal Interaction - The Tongyi Laboratory, led by Alibaba Cloud CTO Zhou Jingren, is developing a comprehensive model matrix that includes language, vision, and audio capabilities [6] - Multimodal interaction, which allows AI to process and understand various forms of information simultaneously, is seen as a critical step towards achieving general artificial intelligence (AGI) [6][7] Competitive Landscape - The adjustment in talent deployment highlights the competitive dynamics among AI giants, where the flow of top talent indicates strategic priorities [9] - Alibaba's focus on foundational models is a response to the intensifying competition in the AI space, emphasizing the importance of long-term investment in core technologies [10]