iQIYI 2021 World Conference: AI, 5G & Cloud Driving the Next Wave of Video Production

Conference Overview

The 2021 iQIYI World Conference, themed “Towards a New Future Together,” gathered 17 forums with global experts, scholars, and partners to discuss content, technology, membership economy, IP ecosystems, and new consumption trends. CEO Gong Yu emphasized a shift from mass‑scale growth to precision‑focused development, citing 5G, AI, and cloud as foundational enablers for industry rule reconstruction.

New Video Model Thinking

Gong introduced a three‑tier video model based on user "cognitive load": "Snackable content" for time‑killing, "Entertainment content" for story and emotional resonance, and "Interest content" for personal passion‑driven consumption. iQIYI aims to strengthen its competitive edge in the entertainment and interest segments.

Intelligent Production Systems

CTO Liu Wenfeng presented iQIYI’s intelligent production roadmap, leveraging 5G, AI, and cloud to deliver a suite of tools—including script evaluation, smart casting, and online review systems—that automate project assessment, production workflow management, and on‑set operations, thereby improving quality control and efficiency.

Immersive XR Performances and Cloud Services

The conference highlighted the "2021 iQIYI Scream for iQIYI" event where 90% of users switched screens, averaging 29 switches per person, demonstrating strong demand for interactive content. In March 2021, iQIYI launched the XR‑powered virtual concert "THE9 – City of Illusion," featuring virtual seats, digital avatars, real‑time lighting sticks, and fan‑co‑created stages, showcasing the convergence of XR, cloud, and live entertainment. iQIYI also announced a cloud series business, including cloud performances and cloud cinema.

Call for Industry Standards

Addressing industry challenges such as traffic‑centric metrics, exorbitant fees, opaque contracts, and IP protection issues, Gong urged the sector to adopt healthier, consensus‑driven regulations. He advocated for continuous innovation in concepts, technology, and products, collaborating with top creative talent and partners to rebuild industry norms and sustain growth.

Future Infrastructure Plans

iQIYI disclosed plans for the iQIYI Dongyang Creative Cultural Center, a comprehensive complex housing a production hub, film academy, crew services, artist residences, theaters, exhibition spaces, VR entertainment, and IP‑driven interactive venues, aiming to bridge online and offline content consumption and expand commercial value networks.