Marketplace All-in-One China tells businesses to embrace AI. Where does that leave humans?
Aug 19, 2025
The intense U.S.-China competition in AI is reshaping the workforce dramatically. At a tech conference in Shanghai, experts discussed how AI is not just innovating but also threatening jobs. AI avatars are revolutionizing e-commerce, with companies like SenseTime leading influencer cloning efforts. This sparks a heated debate on whether AI will displace jobs or pave the way for new opportunities in tech-driven fields. The future of work is evolving, and it's a thrilling, yet uncertain ride!
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Live Demos Showcase AI Capabilities
- At the World AI Conference, Chinese firms demoed AI doctors, lifelike avatars, and humanoid robots to crowds in Shanghai.
- Companies presented these examples as practical, commercial AI applications showcased on exhibition floors.
Avatars As Productivity Multipliers
- SenseTime claims AI avatars can stream 24/7 and reduce the human staff needed for live e-commerce shows.
- Their pitch reframes avatars as productivity multipliers for influencers rather than direct replacements.
Skepticism From Visitors
- Visitors watched humanoid robots boxing, dancing, and playing instruments, though some demos felt unimpressive.
- A delivery worker at the show doubted bots would replace his job soon due to regulation and practical limits.