Alipay Unveils AI Assistant Abao and Relaunches Super App Powered by AI

China’s mobile payment giant Alipay has introduced AI assistant Abao as a key feature of its major platform update. Starting June 16, a limited group of users gained access to the new interface, replacing traditional service searches with an AI-powered conversational system. A full launch is expected in the coming months.

Abao enables users to handle daily tasks via chat, from checking housing fund balances to locating EV charging stations, paying utility bills, and booking services. The assistant integrates with tens of thousands of real-world scenarios, including government services, transportation, and healthcare. The app’s interface has been streamlined to two main sections: Abao and "Assets," where financial records are consolidated for user convenience.

Alipay emphasizes that security remains a priority: all fund transfer operations require user confirmation. The AI performs only authorized actions, and the platform retains its payment protection guarantees. For users not ready for the AI interface, a return to the classic app version is available.

The launch of Abao sets Alipay apart from competitors. While WeChat, China’s largest super app, is still testing AI agent integration, Alipay has made artificial intelligence the primary entry point. Experts believe payments and daily services are an ideal environment for AI assistants due to high usage frequency and clear user tasks.

Success in testing could accelerate Alipay’s transformation from a payment platform into a full-fledged AI assistant for daily life. This will also intensify competition among Chinese super apps, where the battle to become the user’s primary digital assistant will be a key focus in the coming years.