CCTV International Network Co., Ltd. has been actively developing and deploying “digital human” technologies across multiple domains, with applications in broadcasting, live streaming, cultural promotion, education, and AI-powered media production. The company has filed patents such as a method for a digital human to automatically narrate static PPT presentations to improve video playback flow, and has developed 3D ultra-realistic digital humans for complex live scenarios, including its award-winning virtual presenter “Xiao C.” It participates in industry initiatives like the China Digital Human Pilot Program and has showcased work at events including the AI Digital Human Forum and the China Network Audiovisual Conference. Its digital human capabilities are integrated with its “Zhice” large media model and other AI platforms to enhance media fusion, automated content creation, and multilingual delivery. Projects span realistic, cartoon, and virtual character types for entertainment, government services, tourism, and e-commerce, with examples including municipal service avatars, cultural ambassadors, and digital human e-commerce hosts.
CCTV International Network Co., Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of China Media Group (CMG), established on April 28, 2006, as the group’s core platform for online new media operations. It operates CCTV.com, the central key news website and national online audiovisual broadcasting organization, with full licensing qualifications for multi-terminal business. Its origins trace back to December 1996, when the CCTV website launched as one of China’s earliest Chinese-language news portals. The company integrates television content with internet features, focusing on news, video, and user engagement, and holds exclusive rights to distribute CCTV’s television programming online. Headquartered in Haidian District, Beijing, it has more than 1,000 employees and manages multiple sub-brands, including China Network Television (CNTV, 2009–2016). It undertakes the mission of promoting Chinese culture globally, implements the CMG strategy of “equal emphasis on TV and online platforms, online first, TV support,” and is active in intellectual property protection, digital media innovation, e-commerce, live streaming, and international broadcasting.
CCTV has played a prominent role in showcasing and adopting digital humans across its programming, using AI-generated avatars in news broadcasts, special events, and public information campaigns. These digital figures serve as virtual anchors, sign language interpreters, brand representatives, and even recreations of historical personalities. CCTV has collaborated with major tech companies to implement technologies such as real-time motion capture, facial cloning, large language models, and speech synthesis. The network emphasizes the growing role of digital humans in media, governance, education, and commerce, while also addressing concerns about ethical standards, realism, legal frameworks, and professional development. Through frequent coverage and deployment, CCTV positions digital humans as a core element in China's digital transformation strategy.