TENCENT(HK:00700) 腾讯研究院·2026-01-22 08:44Core Viewpoint - Tencent's NextGen AI Archaeology initiative aims to integrate advanced digital technologies with cultural heritage preservation, inviting global tech teams to address specific archaeological challenges and enhance cultural transmission [2][38]. Group 1: Specific Propositions - The initiative has launched four specific propositions for technology teams to tackle, focusing on the restoration and preservation of ancient artifacts using AI [2][30]. - The first proposition involves the AI restoration of the Ming Dynasty's blue-and-white porcelain, which has been fragmented into 15,000 pieces, emphasizing the need for automated, non-contact 3D restoration platforms [4][11]. - The second proposition targets the high-throughput matching and virtual restoration of over 18,000 pieces of Shang Dynasty pottery from the Daxinzhuang site, aiming to develop AI algorithms for efficient classification and matching [12][18]. - The third proposition focuses on constructing a fine-grained dataset for the Kizil Caves' diamond-pattern murals, addressing challenges in data annotation and integration for enhanced research and restoration [19][22]. - The fourth proposition seeks to develop a multi-modal AI restoration engine for the underwater inscriptions at Baiheliang, which are located 40 meters deep in the Yangtze River, to facilitate their preservation and public display [23][28]. Group 2: Open Propositions - The initiative continues to accept open propositions for AI applications in archaeology, encouraging submissions from cultural institutions and tech teams to explore innovative solutions [30]. - Potential project directions include AI-driven virtual restoration of various artifacts, the creation of integrated archaeological databases, and the application of AI in ancient script recognition and analysis [30]. Group 3: Benefits of Participation - Participants in the NextGen AI Archaeology initiative can receive funding of up to one million yuan for technology development and project implementation [31]. - The initiative offers access to significant cultural resources, including 15,000 porcelain fragments and 18,000 pottery images, along with expert support in archaeology and restoration [31]. - Successful projects can achieve industry standards and contribute to the advancement of smart archaeology and digital heritage display, enhancing both academic and commercial value [31]. Group 4: Mission and Objectives - The overarching mission of the initiative is to leverage technology for the preservation and active transmission of cultural heritage, ensuring that ancient civilizations are maintained in the digital age [32][38].