BIGO Technology dominates in AI - Media & Entertainment category at SBR Technology Excellence Awards 2024

Their innovative use of generative AI and virtual reality in Bigo Live enhances user engagement and fosters a creative and inclusive online community. 

Their innovative use of generative AI and virtual reality in Bigo Live enhances user engagement and fosters a creative and inclusive online community. 

BIGO Technology (BIGO) has emerged as a transformative force in the Media & Entertainment sector, clinching the prestigious award in the AI category at the SBR Technology Excellence Awards 2024. BIGO's pioneering platforms, particularly the globally renowned livestreaming platform Bigo Live, have revolutionised social connectivity and engagement, fostering a vibrant community of over 400 million users across 150 countries since its launch in 2016.

Central to BIGO's ethos is the integration of cutting-edge technology to enrich user interactions. Notably, since its recognition at SBR's Technology Excellence Award in 2020 for its proprietary Artificial Intelligence (AI) online content management system (CMS), BIGO has significantly advanced its technological capabilities. 

The advent of generative AI has reshaped content creation and consumption, propelling platforms like Bigo Live and Likee into new realms of personalised, immersive digital experiences. By enhancing its content curation algorithms with AI, BIGO has optimised the content discovery process, catering to the dynamic interests of content creators and users alike.

“We are deeply honoured to receive this award from the Singapore Business Review. At BIGO, we’ve always envisioned a future where AI technologies seamlessly merge with the metaverse to foster deeper connections, richer interactions, and more meaningful relationships within our global community, transcending the physical distance that separates us, ultimately igniting joy and laughter in the hearts of people everywhere,” said Tony Zhu, Chief Technology Officer of BIGO. “ This recognition reinforces our commitment to exploring the limitless possibilities that lie ahead as we strive to revolutionise the way people connect, interact, and engage in the digital realm. Together, we will create a more connected, inclusive, and vibrant online community.”

BIGO's commitment to fostering meaningful connections is evident in its initiatives to boost user engagement, global expansion, and the cultivation of a thriving creator economy. The introduction of 'Virtual Live' in December 2021 stands as a testament to BIGO's innovation. This feature, which merges AI and virtual reality (VR) technology, enables users to craft lifelike 3D avatars, pushing the boundaries of traditional livestreaming. With 'Virtual Live', BIGO not only enhances user engagement but also champions inclusivity, offering a platform where marginalised communities can express themselves freely and creatively.

2023 saw the introduction of new AI-powered features on Bigo Live, including a function for users to generate AI-created avatars in various animation styles and personalised emoticons from user-uploaded photos. These advancements underscore BIGO's dedication to enhancing user interaction and personalisation.

Furthermore, BIGO's recent deployment of an AI-enabled chatbot, integrated with ChatGPT, facilitates seamless interaction across platform functionalities. This initiative empowers Bigo Live broadcasters to broaden their audience and strengthen user retention, extending engagement beyond live sessions and fostering ongoing community interaction.

At its core, BIGO views AI as an augmentation of the human experience rather than a replacement. Through strategic AI integration, BIGO not only elevates the creator experience but also preserves the authentic human connection that defines Bigo Live. Beyond technological innovation, BIGO is driving a cultural shift towards a digital ecosystem that melds virtual and real-world experiences, enabling global self-expression.

BIGO Technology's accolade at the SBR Technology Excellence Awards 2024 underscores its role as an innovator reshaping social connections through technology. With a focus on user-centricity and social impact, BIGO is redefining the future of social interaction, empowering individuals worldwide to connect, express, and engage in transformative ways. As BIGO continues to explore new frontiers, its influence on the digital and social landscape is poised to grow, shaping the way we connect and interact in an increasingly digital world.

The SBR Technology Excellence Awards is presented by Singapore Business Review Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2025 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's outstanding contributions in pursuit of technological innovation, please contact Jane Patiag at [email protected].