China’s Ant launches AI-powered health-care app, eyes global expansion

Alibaba-affiliate Ant Group made a significant move in the healthcare industry by launching a new AI-powered app on June 26, 2025. The app, named AQ, is a reflection of China’s growing expertise in artificial intelligence technology and its application in consumer-centric services.

Ant Group, known for its popular Alipay mobile payments app, has been investing heavily in AI development, particularly in the healthcare sector. The new app, AQ, offers users the opportunity to consult AI avatars of real medical specialists, providing them with expert advice and facilitating priority access to diagnostic appointments or hospital care if necessary. With a network of over 5,000 hospitals and nearly 1 million doctors in China, AQ aims to revolutionize the way healthcare services are accessed and delivered.

While initially focused on the Chinese market, Ant Group has expressed intentions to expand the app’s reach globally. Foreigners in China have already tested a pilot version of the app, and plans are underway to release versions in multiple languages. This move signifies Ant Group’s ambition to leverage its AI technology beyond borders and cater to a diverse range of users worldwide.

The integration of AI in healthcare is not unique to Ant Group, as other Chinese tech giants like Tencent and Ping An Insurance have also been exploring similar initiatives. The abundance of data and emphasis on digitalization in China have laid a strong foundation for the development of AI-powered healthcare solutions. This trend is not limited to China, as U.S.-based tech companies like Microsoft and Amazon.com have also made significant strides in AI-powered healthcare tools.

Alipay, a major player in the Chinese mobile payments space, has successfully ventured into healthcare services over the past decade. With features like digital appointment booking at public hospitals, Alipay has garnered a user base of nearly 800 million in China. The AQ app builds on this success by incorporating AI-driven functionalities such as doctor recommendations, medical report analysis, and personalized medical advice.

The launch of the AQ app underscores Ant Group’s commitment to innovation and its vision to revolutionize the healthcare industry through artificial intelligence. As the app gains traction in China and potentially expands globally, it is poised to transform the way individuals access and experience healthcare services.