Core Viewpoint - Alibaba's Tongyi APP has undergone a significant update, allowing users to create personalized AI avatars with customizable appearance, voice, and personality, indicating a shift towards a more interactive and emotionally engaging AI experience [2][4]. Group 1: Key Features of the Update - The update grants users complete DIY permissions for their AI assistants, enabling them to upload photos, clone voices, and customize personality traits, all within a few minutes [4]. - Notable features include voice cloning and voice calls, which have led to diverse user applications, such as creating AI versions of famous personalities for discussions or virtual companions [4]. - The global download of AI companion applications has surpassed 220 million, with an 88% increase in the first half of this year, highlighting a growing market for personalized AI experiences [4]. Group 2: Market and Strategic Insights - The mobile AI market segment is projected to exceed $120 million in annual revenue, emphasizing the trend of humanizing AI to meet emotional needs [4]. - Alibaba's strategy positions Tongyi APP as a "composite" that combines professional knowledge with personalized emotional support, similar to Musk's recent Grok initiative [4]. - A critical advantage for Alibaba in the Chinese market is its ability to ensure compliance and build a robust content safety system, reducing policy risks and enhancing operational sustainability [7]. Group 3: User Guide - To create a personalized AI avatar, users can follow these steps: open the Tongyi APP, click on the digital avatar, and upload custom information, including voice cloning options [8]. - Once created, users can engage in direct conversations or voice calls with their AI avatars [8].