The development process was an interdisciplinary effort, according to Fan. While linguists like Qian and Ding provided crucial resources, the Chinese Language Department of the university spearheaded the model training and integration. The university's art academy handled 3D modeling and visual design, and the Ziqiang 5000 supercomputing system furnished the necessary computational muscle.

"The creation of Xiao Hu represents the collective efforts of multiple generations of scholars at Shanghai University," Fan remarked. Hu is a short form of "Shanghai "in Mandarin. "The project is advancing thanks to the pioneering work of professors Qian and Ding and contributions from our data processing experts, computational linguists and design team."

Looking ahead, the team plans to expand Xiao Hu's capabilities with features like additional voice models for different genders and ages, enabling functions like singing in the Shanghai dialect. Enhancements to language understanding and generation are also planned.

Zeng highlights the model's vast potential, with applications ranging from elderly voice services and language-learning platforms to livestreams hosted entirely in the distinctive local vernacular.

Perhaps most promising, Xiao Hu could serve as a translation tool and emotional companion for the city's aging Shanghainese speakers. Official data shows Shanghai had over 5.6 million residents aged 60 and above as of late 2023, accounting for more than a third of the total registered population in the city.

"By enabling seamless communication in the Shanghai dialect, Xiao Hu could provide companionship, translation services and emotional support for the elderly, many of whom are more comfortable conversing in their native dialect," Zeng adds.

Other applications include integrating the model into schools to facilitate Shanghainese learning through interactive products and courses and utilizing it as an AI host for engaging audiences in livestreams and broadcasts in the Shanghai dialect, he adds.

zhengzheng@chinadaily.com.cn