The world’s first virtual panda was unveiled on Wednesday by the National Forestry and Grassland Administration (NFGA), China Media Group, and internet giant Tencent. This innovative virtual panda captures the cuteness of the giant panda using state-of-the-art artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

Developed using Tencent’s advanced technologies, the virtual panda boasts an ultra-high-definition restoration of a giant panda’s body, including over 2 million meticulously detailed hair strands. Tencent’s large model, “Hunyuan,” enables the virtual panda to chat and promote scientific knowledge, as noted on the NFGA’s website.

With professional guidance from the China Giant Panda Conservation and Research Center, Tencent employed high-fidelity modeling technology to process the intricate geometric details of the panda’s hair, ensuring that the texture and movement of the hair are lifelike. Intelligent bone binding and super 3A film-level high-precision biological rendering were used to accurately replicate the panda’s bone and muscle details during movement, based on its real physiological structure.

The virtual panda also features a “cloud habitat,” which uses high-fidelity technology to replicate the Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve’s environment on a 1:1 scale. This simulated habitat includes 79 real plant species, rocks, waterfalls, and streams, offering a realistic and immersive experience.

Users can interact with the virtual panda through a mobile app, allowing them to feed and chat with the digital creature.

“Do not be jealous of Sichuan people, you can have your own panda,” read a popular comment on Sina Weibo, highlighting the widespread excitement and engagement with this virtual innovation.

This groundbreaking project not only showcases Tencent’s technological prowess but also offers a new way for people around the world to engage with and learn about giant pandas.