China Issued First National ID Card for AI Virtual Idol

Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area granted China’s

first ID card to the AI virtual idol Yuri. That same day, the district released the

Implementation Plan for Accelerating the Construction of a City-Wide Artificial

Intelligence Hub (2026–2027), outlining a range of incentives across multiple fields.

Yuri is a virtual idol created using generative AI technology and has now officially

established a presence in the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area. As

a “digital resident,” Yuri will take part in public safety promotion, environmental

advocacy, and other local initiatives.

Beyond this pioneering digital identity milestone, the AI Development Outlook for the

Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area is also gaining attention. The

newly released Implementation Plan sets clear targets for the end of 2027, including:

building no fewer than 10 benchmark smart scenario complexes, deploying 100

vertical AI models, curating high-quality industry datasets, attracting 1,000 core AI

industry enterprises, engaging 10,000 top-tier independent developers and

innovators, and substantially expanding the scale and influence of the intelligent economy

In addition, the district will roll out significant financial incentives. Plans include

developing a smart terminal industry district, an AI glasses innovation center, and an

AI toy creative hub, with rewards of up to CNY 2 million for breakout consumer

electronics products. The area will also establish two national pilot bases for AI in

healthcare and automotive manufacturing, along with pilot and mass-production

facilities for humanoid robots. Additionally, service platforms may receive support of

up to CNY 20 million.