Alibaba's HappyHorse: A New Contender in AI Video Models

In a move that could shake up the AI video modeling landscape, Alibaba has revealed that their newly developed model, HappyHorse, is undergoing internal testing. Created by the innovation unit under Alibaba Token Hub (ATH), this model is set to have API access soon, representing Alibaba's broader ambitions in AI-era interactions.

HappyHorse and ATH's Role

The recent disclosure provides insight into ATH, a fresh business group within Alibaba, established in March under CEO Eddie Wu. This group consolidates various units like Tongyi Lab, MaaS, and Qwen, positioning HappyHorse as one of the flagship projects of this new structure. Does this suggest a strategic pivot for Alibaba towards AI innovation? Color me skeptical, but it seems more like a calculated move to cement their position in the rapidly evolving AI industry.

Dominating the Rankings

HappyHorse-1.0 has already captured attention by anonymously topping several video model rankings, including the coveted AI Video Arena from Artificial Analysis. It surpassed formidable competitors like ByteDance's Seedance 2.0 and Google's Veo 3 Fast. This achievement, while noteworthy, raises an important question: How did HappyHorse achieve such rapid success, and what does it mean for its competitors?

The Unofficial Online Presence

While HappyHorse has yet to have an official website, numerous unofficial sites have emerged. This online presence, albeit unofficial, highlights the model's growing notoriety and the anticipation surrounding its official release. However, Alibaba's decision to keep its official online footprint minimal at this stage suggests a strategy focused on building intrigue and controlling the narrative.

Ultimately, Alibaba's entry into the AI video arena with HappyHorse is a bold move. It underscores their commitment to pioneering AI technologies and potentially reshaping the competitive landscape. The question is, how will established players respond to this new entrant? Alibaba's approach, marked by strategic consolidation and innovation, is one that others might soon be forced to emulate.