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Baidu Unveils ERNIE 4.5 and Reasoning Model ERNIE X1, Makes ERNIE Bot Free Ahead of Schedule

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Baidu Unveils ERNIE 4.5 and Reasoning Model ERNIE X1, Makes ERNIE Bot Free Ahead of Schedule
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Baidu Unveils ERNIE 4.5 and Reasoning Model ERNIE X1, Makes ERNIE Bot Free Ahead of Schedule

2025-03-16 16:36 Last Updated At:16:55

  • With the launch of ERNIE 4.5 and ERNIE X1, ERNIE Bot is made free to the public ahead of schedule, and users can access both models free of charge.
  • As a deep-thinking reasoning model with multimodal capabilities, ERNIE X1 delivers performance on par with DeepSeek R1 at only half the price.
  • ERNIE 4.5 is the company's latest foundation model and native multimodal model, with input and output prices starting as low as RMB 0.004 per thousand tokens and RMB 0.016 per thousand tokens.
  • BEIJING, March 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Baidu, Inc. (NASDAQ: BIDU and HKEX: 9888), a leading AI company with strong Internet foundation, today launched its latest foundation models, including native multimodal foundation model ERNIE 4.5 and deep-thinking reasoning model ERNIE X1. Both models are now freely accessible to individual users through ERNIE Bot's official website (https://yiyan.baidu.com/).

    The launch of ERNIE 4.5 and ERNIE X1 marks a significant milestone in pushing the boundaries of multimodal and reasoning models, offering advanced capabilities at a more accessible price point. It also underscores Baidu's commitment to continued investment in developing smarter and more powerful next-generation foundation models.

    Baidu also plans to progressively integrate both ERNIE 4.5 and X1 into its product ecosystem. This integration will include Baidu Search, the Wenxiaoyan app, and other offerings, delivering a more versatile and enhanced experience to a broader base of individual users.

    With the addition of ERNIE 4.5 and ERNIE X1 today, ERNIE Bot is being made free to the public ahead of schedule. Earlier this year, the company announced a plan that ERNIE Bot would become fully-free to individual users starting April 1. For enterprise users and developers, ERNIE 4.5 is now accessible via APIs on Baidu AI Cloud's MaaS platform Qianfan, while ERNIE X1 is set to be available on the platform soon.

    ERNIE 4.5: Baidu's New Generation Native Multimodal Foundation Model

    ERNIE 4.5 is Baidu's new generation native multimodal foundation model independently developed by the company. It achieves collaborative optimization through joint modeling of multiple modalities, demonstrating exceptional multimodal comprehension capabilities. With refined language skills, it exhibits comprehensive improvements in understanding, generation, reasoning and memory, along with notable enhancements in hallucination prevention, logical reasoning, and coding abilities.

    ERNIE 4.5's multimodal capabilities are evident in its ability to integrate and understand text, images, audio, and video content.

    ERNIE 4.5 also possesses strong intelligence and contextual awareness, effortlessly understanding internet memes, satirical cartoons, and more.

    As Baidu's latest foundation model and native multimodal model, ERNIE 4.5 outperforms GPT-4.5 in multiple benchmarks while priced at just 1% of GPT-4.5.


    The significant enhancements in ERNIE 4.5's capabilities are attributed to several key technologies including "FlashMask" Dynamic Attention Masking, Heterogeneous Multimodal Mixture-of-Experts, Spatiotemporal Representation Compression, Knowledge-Centric Training Data Construction, Self-feedback Enhanced Post-Training.

    ERNIE X1: Baidu's New Deep-Thinking Reasoning Model

    ERNIE X1 possesses enhanced capabilities in understanding, planning, reflection, and evolution. As Baidu's first multimodal deep-thinking reasoning model capable of tool use, X1 also excels in Chinese knowledge Q&A, literary creation, manuscript writing, dialogue, logical reasoning, and complex calculations.

    Specifically for tool use, X1 supports various tools including advanced search, Q&A on given document, image understanding, AI image generation, code interpreting, webpage reading, TreeMind mapping, Baidu academic search, business information search, and franchise information search.

    The comprehensive uplift in ERNIE X1's capabilities is underpinned by key technologies such as the Progressive Reinforcement Learning Method, End-to-End Training Approach Integrating Chains of Thought and Action, and A Unified Multi-Faceted Reward System.

    Enterprise users and developers can directly access ERNIE 4.5's API through Baidu AI Cloud's Qianfan Foundation Model Platform, with input prices starting as low as RMB 0.004 per thousand tokens and output prices at RMB 0.016 per thousand tokens.  ERNIE X1 will soon be available on the Qianfan Platform, with input prices as low as RMB 0.002 per thousand tokens and output prices as low as RMB 0.008 per thousand tokens.

    2025 is set to be an important year for the development and iteration of large language models and technologies. With the launch of ERNIE 4.5 and ERNIE X1, Baidu will continue to invest in artificial intelligence, data centers and cloud infrastructure to advance our AI capabilities, and develop smarter and more powerful next-generation models.

    About Baidu

    Founded in 2000, Baidu's mission is to make the complicated world simpler through technology. Baidu is a leading AI company with strong internet foundation, trading on the NASDAQ under "BIDU" and HKEX under "9888." One Baidu ADS represents eight Class A ordinary shares.

    Media Contact
    intlcomm@baidu.com

BEIJING, March 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Baidu, Inc. (NASDAQ: BIDU and HKEX: 9888), a leading AI company with strong Internet foundation, today launched its latest foundation models, including native multimodal foundation model ERNIE 4.5 and deep-thinking reasoning model ERNIE X1. Both models are now freely accessible to individual users through ERNIE Bot's official website (https://yiyan.baidu.com/).

The launch of ERNIE 4.5 and ERNIE X1 marks a significant milestone in pushing the boundaries of multimodal and reasoning models, offering advanced capabilities at a more accessible price point. It also underscores Baidu's commitment to continued investment in developing smarter and more powerful next-generation foundation models.

Baidu also plans to progressively integrate both ERNIE 4.5 and X1 into its product ecosystem. This integration will include Baidu Search, the Wenxiaoyan app, and other offerings, delivering a more versatile and enhanced experience to a broader base of individual users.

With the addition of ERNIE 4.5 and ERNIE X1 today, ERNIE Bot is being made free to the public ahead of schedule. Earlier this year, the company announced a plan that ERNIE Bot would become fully-free to individual users starting April 1. For enterprise users and developers, ERNIE 4.5 is now accessible via APIs on Baidu AI Cloud's MaaS platform Qianfan, while ERNIE X1 is set to be available on the platform soon.

ERNIE 4.5: Baidu's New Generation Native Multimodal Foundation Model

ERNIE 4.5 is Baidu's new generation native multimodal foundation model independently developed by the company. It achieves collaborative optimization through joint modeling of multiple modalities, demonstrating exceptional multimodal comprehension capabilities. With refined language skills, it exhibits comprehensive improvements in understanding, generation, reasoning and memory, along with notable enhancements in hallucination prevention, logical reasoning, and coding abilities.

ERNIE 4.5's multimodal capabilities are evident in its ability to integrate and understand text, images, audio, and video content.

ERNIE 4.5 also possesses strong intelligence and contextual awareness, effortlessly understanding internet memes, satirical cartoons, and more.

As Baidu's latest foundation model and native multimodal model, ERNIE 4.5 outperforms GPT-4.5 in multiple benchmarks while priced at just 1% of GPT-4.5.

The significant enhancements in ERNIE 4.5's capabilities are attributed to several key technologies including "FlashMask" Dynamic Attention Masking, Heterogeneous Multimodal Mixture-of-Experts, Spatiotemporal Representation Compression, Knowledge-Centric Training Data Construction, Self-feedback Enhanced Post-Training.

ERNIE X1: Baidu's New Deep-Thinking Reasoning Model

ERNIE X1 possesses enhanced capabilities in understanding, planning, reflection, and evolution. As Baidu's first multimodal deep-thinking reasoning model capable of tool use, X1 also excels in Chinese knowledge Q&A, literary creation, manuscript writing, dialogue, logical reasoning, and complex calculations.

Specifically for tool use, X1 supports various tools including advanced search, Q&A on given document, image understanding, AI image generation, code interpreting, webpage reading, TreeMind mapping, Baidu academic search, business information search, and franchise information search.

The comprehensive uplift in ERNIE X1's capabilities is underpinned by key technologies such as the Progressive Reinforcement Learning Method, End-to-End Training Approach Integrating Chains of Thought and Action, and A Unified Multi-Faceted Reward System.

Enterprise users and developers can directly access ERNIE 4.5's API through Baidu AI Cloud's Qianfan Foundation Model Platform, with input prices starting as low as RMB 0.004 per thousand tokens and output prices at RMB 0.016 per thousand tokens.  ERNIE X1 will soon be available on the Qianfan Platform, with input prices as low as RMB 0.002 per thousand tokens and output prices as low as RMB 0.008 per thousand tokens.

2025 is set to be an important year for the development and iteration of large language models and technologies. With the launch of ERNIE 4.5 and ERNIE X1, Baidu will continue to invest in artificial intelligence, data centers and cloud infrastructure to advance our AI capabilities, and develop smarter and more powerful next-generation models.

About Baidu

Founded in 2000, Baidu's mission is to make the complicated world simpler through technology. Baidu is a leading AI company with strong internet foundation, trading on the NASDAQ under "BIDU" and HKEX under "9888." One Baidu ADS represents eight Class A ordinary shares.

Media Contact
intlcomm@baidu.com

** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **

Baidu Unveils ERNIE 4.5 and Reasoning Model ERNIE X1, Makes ERNIE Bot Free Ahead of Schedule

Baidu Unveils ERNIE 4.5 and Reasoning Model ERNIE X1, Makes ERNIE Bot Free Ahead of Schedule

Baidu Unveils ERNIE 4.5 and Reasoning Model ERNIE X1, Makes ERNIE Bot Free Ahead of Schedule

Baidu Unveils ERNIE 4.5 and Reasoning Model ERNIE X1, Makes ERNIE Bot Free Ahead of Schedule

POMONA, Calif., Aug. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As schools prepare for the 2026–2027 academic year, classroom technology is becoming increasingly connected to the digital tools educators and students already use every day. Yet adding more technology does not always mean a simpler classroom experience. Switching between platforms, connecting personal devices, and managing software can create unnecessary friction during instruction.

Nework's NewBoard E-Series is designed to address that challenge by bringing native Google ecosystem access, interactive teaching capabilities, and flexible device connectivity together in a single classroom display. Available in 55-inch, 65-inch, and 75-inch models, the E-Series combines Google EDLA certification with Android 14 to provide educators with a more familiar and connected digital teaching environment.

Native Google Access for a More Connected Classroom

A key feature of the NewBoard E-Series is its official Google EDLA certification, which provides native access to the Google Play Store, Google Workspace, and Google Classroom directly from the display. Educators can access familiar classroom tools and educational applications without relying on external PCs or complex sideloading.

The certification also supports enterprise-grade data privacy and automatic OTA updates, helping schools maintain a secure and manageable technology environment. For educators, the goal is straightforward: spend less time managing technology and more time teaching.

Designed Around Collaborative Learning

The E-Series is built to support classrooms where interaction extends beyond the teacher standing at the front of the room. Its 50-point multi-touch capability allows up to 10 users to write, draw, and work through problems simultaneously, while palm rejection, smart stylus recognition, and gesture support provide a more natural writing experience.

With an 8-core processor, 8GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and Android 14, the display is designed to support multitasking across teaching applications and interactive content.

Wireless screen sharing further expands classroom participation. Through E-Share, teachers and students can stream content from up to 16 devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones. This makes it easier to move between individual work, group discussion, and classroom presentations while supporting a flexible BYOD environment.

Built for Everyday Classroom Use

The E-Series combines these interactive capabilities with a 4K UHD anti-glare display, an 85% NTSC color gamut, and a 178-degree viewing angle to support clear visibility across the classroom. Anti-glare treatment helps minimize reflections under classroom lighting, while toughened 8H glass adds durability for everyday use.

Full-function USB-C connectivity with 65W power delivery brings video, audio, touch return, and charging together through a single cable, helping simplify transitions between devices and presentations. Dual 20W front-facing speakers provide clear audio for multimedia lessons and classroom content.

"EdTech should empower teachers to teach, not force them to spend valuable class time troubleshooting connections or managing outdated software," said the Nework Product Team. "With Google EDLA certification and Android 14 on the NewBoard E-Series, educators can access the Google tools they already rely on directly from the display. Our goal is to make connected classroom technology more intuitive, secure, and interactive for learning environments of all sizes."

For the 2026–2027 Back-to-School season, the NewBoard E-Series represents Nework's broader approach to classroom technology: bringing the tools educators already use into a more integrated, collaborative, and accessible learning environment.

About Nework

Nework is an innovative brand specializing in audiovisual presentation and collaborative products, headquartered in California, USA. It delivers a wide range of products, including interactive displays, portable TVs, cameras, speakerphones, and accessories. Premium solutions are delivered across two specialized platforms: Nework.us for portable lifestyle TVs, and Nework.ai for professional smart boards and workplace collaboration.

With a brand mission and vision of "Empowering with advanced audiovisual, interactive, and AI technologies to improve presentation, collaboration, and communication efficiency," Nework strives to make every presentation and entertainment experience seamless and enjoyable.

For more information, please visit https://www.nework.ai/ or connect with Nework:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neworkus

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nework-us

X: https://x.com/Nework_us   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nework.us

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Nework-us

** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **

Nework Advances Connected Learning with Google-Certified NewBoard E-Series

Nework Advances Connected Learning with Google-Certified NewBoard E-Series

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