Overwhelmed by AI: Alibaba's Qwen Chatbot Halts Coupons Amid Surging Demand

Alibaba's AI chatbot, Qwen, paused its coupon distribution due to customer overload, disrupting a campaign meant to showcase its enhanced shopping assistance. This initiative, part of a major investment plan, aims to boost user engagement during China's Spring Festival. Technical issues have hindered its ambitious rollout.

Alibaba's AI-driven chatbot, Qwen, temporarily ceased coupon distribution after experiencing overwhelming demand, complicating an ongoing campaign to highlight its expanded capabilities beyond basic queries.

Launched as part of a substantial 3-billion-yuan investment strategy, the initiative allows users to make in-app purchases through simple chatbot prompts on Alibaba's retail platforms, aiming to integrate Qwen into users' digital routines during China's bustling Spring Festival.

Despite the campaign's ambitious goals, technical issues quickly emerged. Within nine hours, 10 million orders flooded the system, causing server overload and leading Qwen to request user patience. Alibaba has refrained from commenting further on the disruptions, assuring consumers that their coupons remain valid through February 28.

(With inputs from agencies.)