Alibaba launches Qwen 3 AI model with hybrid reasoning

Chinese tech giant Alibaba Group launched Qwen 3 on Tuesday, an upgraded version of its flagship artificial intelligence model that introduces new hybrid reasoning capabilities.

The release comes amid intensifying competition in China’s AI sector, following the breakout success of local startup DeepSeek earlier this year. DeepSeek claimed to have developed high-performing models at lower costs than their Western counterparts, prompting a wave of new developments in the industry.

Last Friday, Chinese search leader Baidu entered the fray with the release of its Ernie 4.5 Turbo and the reasoning-focused Ernie X1 Turbo models.

Alibaba’s Qwen 3 integrates conventional AI functionalities with advanced dynamic reasoning, offering what the company describes as a more adaptable and efficient platform for app and software developers.

The e-commerce giant had previously rolled out Qwen 2.5-Max in late January, just days after DeepSeek's announcement, claiming that it outperformed competing models.