Ant Group Launches AI Health App With Global Ambitions and Virtual Medical Consultations

Ant Group Launches AI-Driven Healthcare App for Smartphones

Ant Group, a major player in China's tech scene and operator of the Alipay mobile payment platform, has introduced a new AI-powered healthcare app called AQ. This app uses artificial intelligence to assist users with medical inquiries and preliminary consultations, connecting them to a vast network of healthcare professionals.

AQ, which stands for "answer your question," leverages large language models developed in collaboration with companies such as DeepSeek and Alibaba. The app features AI avatars representing real medical specialists, offering users guidance before arranging diagnostic appointments or hospital visits for more critical cases.

Extensive Healthcare Network Integration

The app is integrated with over 5,000 hospitals and nearly one million doctors across China. This extensive network allows users to access credible medical advice quickly and efficiently, improving healthcare accessibility within the country.

While its primary focus remains on the Chinese mainland, Ant Group has plans to license the app or its underlying technology to third parties abroad. Early pilot versions have already been used by many foreigners in China, and the company intends to launch versions in multiple languages to extend its reach.

AI and Digital Twins in Clinical Research

Beyond consumer healthcare apps, AI is making strides in clinical research through the use of digital twins. These virtual models simulate patient responses and can significantly reduce drug development costs and timelines. Digital twins help minimize reliance on placebo groups and accelerate the arrival of life-saving treatments, especially in challenging fields like neuroscience.

Jon Walsh, founder and chief scientific officer at Unlearn, highlights that this technology is reshaping clinical trials by creating more equitable healthcare tools. He emphasizes the necessity for transparency and trust in AI tools, noting that better infrastructure and medical education are key to their successful adoption.

• AI-powered healthcare apps like AQ offer practical benefits for both patients and providers by streamlining access to medical expertise.
• Digital twin technology promises more efficient clinical trials with potentially higher success rates.
• Ongoing development and licensing efforts suggest AI healthcare tools will soon have a broader global impact.

For healthcare professionals interested in expanding their knowledge of AI applications, exploring specialized training can be valuable. Resources like Complete AI Training’s healthcare-specific courses provide practical insights into integrating AI technologies effectively in clinical settings.