WeChat began testing an AI-powered search feature yesterday, integrating the DeepSeek-R1 model for what the Tencent-backed super-app said would be a more diverse and intelligent search experience, according to Chinese media outlet iThome. Users in the trial phase can access the feature via a new “AI Search” button in the chat interface. Tencent clarified that the AI search pulls data from public WeChat official accounts and other online content, but does not use private user data, such as chat histories or posts on Moments (WeChat’s social feed). Currently in a limited testing phase, the feature is designed to enhance search precision and user experience, leveraging DeepSeek’s large model to better understand search intent and handle complex queries, the platform said. DeepSeek, launched in January, is seen as highly competitive with OpenAI’s offerings and is available under an MIT open-source license. Several industry leaders in China have adopted DeepSeek since the 2025 Spring Festival holiday. [iThome, in Chinese]
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