Baidu has announced the launch of two advanced AI models, ERNIE 4.5 and ERNIE X1, on March 16, 2025. These models are now freely accessible to individual users via the ERNIE Bot platform, ahead of the previously planned April 1 timeline. This move underscores Baidu's commitment to making cutting-edge AI technology more accessible while continuing to expand its ecosystem of AI-driven tools and services.
ERNIE 4.5: Multimodal Foundation Model
ERNIE 4.5 is Baidu's latest native multimodal foundation model designed to process and integrate text, images, audio, and video data. It features advanced capabilities in language understanding, generation, reasoning, and memory while addressing challenges like hallucination prevention and logical reasoning. The model incorporates key technologies such as "FlashMask" Dynamic Attention Masking and Heterogeneous Multimodal Mixture-of-Experts to achieve superior performance. Benchmark tests indicate that ERNIE 4.5 outperforms OpenAI's GPT-4.5 at just 1% of its cost, with input prices starting at RMB 0.004 per thousand tokens.
ERNIE X1: Deep-Thinking Reasoning Model
ERNIE X1 is Baidu's first multimodal reasoning model with deep-thinking capabilities. It excels in tasks requiring advanced reasoning, such as Chinese knowledge Q&A, manuscript writing, complex calculations, and tool usage. The model supports various tools for tasks like image analysis, code interpretation, and academic research. Its development is based on innovative methodologies like Progressive Reinforcement Learning and End-to-End Training with integrated chains of thought and action.
We've just unveiled ERNIE 4.5 & X1! 🚀
— Baidu Inc. (@Baidu_Inc) March 16, 2025
As a deep-thinking reasoning model with multimodal capabilities, ERNIE X1 delivers performance on par with DeepSeek R1 at only half the price. Meanwhile, ERNIE 4.5 is our latest foundation model and new-generation native multimodal model.… pic.twitter.com/cLKVHYvbzw
Free Access and Enterprise Integration
Both models are now free for individual users through the ERNIE Bot website. For enterprise users and developers, ERNIE 4.5 is available via APIs on Baidu AI Cloud's Qianfan platform, with ERNIE X1 set to follow soon. The models will also be integrated into Baidu’s ecosystem, including Baidu Search and the Wenxiaoyan app.
This release positions Baidu as a competitive force in the AI landscape by offering high-performing models at significantly lower costs compared to rivals like OpenAI.
