Region-Focused Virtual Assistant
Helpful Hand
The use of virtual assistants has emerged as a global trend, driven by the increasing popularity of AI-generated chatbots that aid individuals with online shopping, customer service, and daily tasks through conversational dialogue. The concept of a virtual or digital assistant first appeared on 2011. Since then, numerous tech companies worldwide have sought to develop their own versions of virtual assistants to meet the growing consumer demand for accessible and helpful support.
A crucial aspect of developing an effective AI assistant is its ability to understand the user's desired language. Tech companies with a global presence strive to offer seamless virtual assistants that cater to the language preferences of international users. In Vietnam, however, developers have created a distinct virtual assistant designed specifically to address the unique needs of their citizens.
Regional Assistant
Zalo, the leading messaging app in Vietnam, was developed by VNG Corporation, the same company that launched "Kiki” in 2020, the first Vietnamese AI-powered virtual assistant. Users can easily access Kiki through the Zalo app, allowing seamless connection to any smart device. Once connected, users can instruct their AI assistant to check traffic conditions, receive news updates, or send text messages.
Vietnamese engineers displayed great ambition in their AI research, incorporating distinctive features into their app that align with Vietnamese culture. This includes functionalities like checking the lunar calendar and training the system to understand accents from northern, southern, and central regions.
Global Footprint
A recent report from Zalo indicates that around 300,000 installations have been identified. With the feature accessible via the Google Play Store when downloading the Zelo app, developers are hopeful about increasing installations and establishing a presence in the global market.