The 2026 Apsara Conference opens in Hangzhou on Sept 22. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]

The 2026 Apsara Conference opened in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, on Sept 22, with participants increasingly focused on using AI to address practical workplace problems rather than simply showcasing new technologies.

This year's visitors include developers, entrepreneurs, and students, many of whom are focusing less on technology concepts and more on how AI can handle specific tasks. The shift reflects growing interest in practical AI tools as the technology becomes increasingly integrated into daily work.

At the "AI Office Bar" in Hall 3, visitors can bring real workplace problems and develop reusable AI skills, toolkits, and templates with technical support. More than 200 AI tools and industry templates are available across 17 major professional categories, covering tasks such as financial reconciliation, contract review, recruitment, and marketing.

The conference also showcases AI agents for creation, entertainment, and office work, as well as applications in manufacturing and business operations. The exhibits demonstrate how AI is moving beyond demonstrations to become a practical work assistant.

AI upgrades are also reaching devices including headphones, cameras, desktop robots, and personal computers, expanding access to intelligent assistants.

The conference is increasingly serving as a window into industry trends, a learning platform for young people, and a hub for business collaboration, with practical application emerging as a central focus.