China will boost growth of its artificial intelligence sector over the next three years, through a specific innovation program.

AI involves two major biometric modalities: image recognition and speech processing. A key component of China’s AI sector has been investment by start-up firms in image recognition for financial technology, surveillance and autonomous driving. Analysts expect AI will also to be used in natural language processing to understand both medical records and conversations between doctors and patients, as well as in image recognition applied for CT scans in order to identify specific illnesses.

Under the strategy, national government departments will identify supportive fiscal policies for the sector and boost international cooperation. The strategy will involve key projects such as developing intelligent home appliances, smart automobiles, intelligent wearable devices and robots.