Written By Chinese tech giant Baidu is set to make a splash in the smartphone market with the launch of its new device, featuring built-in smart speaker capabilities. The move marks the latest step in Baidu’s expansion beyond its core search engine business.
The phone, dubbed the “Xiaodu Phone X10,” is expected to launch in China in the coming weeks. It features a 6.5-inch display, 6GB of RAM, and a 4,000mAh battery. However, what sets the device apart is its smart speaker functionality, powered by Baidu’s own Xiaodu virtual assistant.
The Xiaodu assistant, similar to Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant, can perform a range of tasks, such as playing music, making phone calls, and setting reminders, all through voice commands. Users can wake up the assistant by saying “Xiaodu” or by pressing a button on the side of the phone.
The move into the phone market is a logical step for Baidu, which has been investing heavily in voice technology and smart speakers in recent years. In 2017, the company launched its first smart speaker, the Xiaodu, and has since expanded its product line to include a range of devices, including smart displays and even a smart trash can.
The company’s focus on voice technology has paid off, with Baidu’s virtual assistant now boasting over 800 million users worldwide. By integrating the assistant into its new phone, Baidu hopes to offer users a seamless and intuitive experience, while also leveraging its existing user base to drive sales.
However, Baidu faces stiff competition in the crowded smartphone market, particularly in China, where domestic brands like Xiaomi and Huawei dominate. To stand out, Baidu will need to offer compelling features and competitive pricing, as well as differentiate itself from competitors by emphasizing the smart speaker functionality.
The move into the phone market also marks a strategic shift for Baidu, as the company looks to diversify its revenue streams beyond its core search engine business. Baidu’s search engine has long been the company’s bread and butter, but increased competition and regulatory scrutiny in recent years have put pressure on the company to explore new areas of growth.
In addition to its focus on voice technology and smart devices, Baidu has also been investing heavily in artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous driving technology. The company has set its sights on becoming a leader in the emerging field of autonomous vehicles, with plans to launch a fleet of self-driving taxis in China in the coming years.
Overall, Baidu’s entry into the smartphone market with its new smart speaker-enabled device marks an important milestone for the company’s broader strategy of expanding beyond its search engine roots. While the company faces challenges in a crowded market, Baidu’s investment in voice technology and smart devices positions it well for future growth in the tech industry.
