China launches deep learning lab for AI dominance

China has approved a plan to create a next-generation national laboratory for deep learning. The lab is expected to help China close the gap with Western counterparts in the field of competitive artificial intelligence applications. The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) approved plans for a national engineering lab to support the research and development of deep learning technologies. The lab will be online only, without a physical presence. The NDRC commissioned Baidu, the Chinese search engine giant, to create the lab in collaboration with Tsinghua and Beijing Universities, as well as the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, and the China Electronics Standardization Institute. The project will be led by Baidu's deep learning institute chief Lin Yuanqing and scientist Xu Wei, along with academics from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhang Bo and Li Wei.