Cue: Takes the Spotlight - Naver's Beta Launch Set For AI-Driven Search

South Korean internet giant HyperCLOVA X Corp. has introduced a beta version of its generative AI search engine, “Cue: “, signaling its entry into the competitive global generative AI sector. This new search engine leverages Naver’s extensive language model,HyperCLOVA X, unveiled in August 2023.

Cue: focuses on search experience, offering users a novel approach to access information through interactive chat-based interactions. Cue: joins the ranks of search engine giants like Microsoft’s Bing, emphasizing Naver’s determination to compete with them in the AI-driven innovations from the digital world.

Cue: offers a conversational approach to search queries, away from the conventional search engine model. Users can input questions conversationally, enabling the AI-powered service to understand the context of their inquiries and provide tailored responses. The interactive feature plans to enhance the overall search experience, making it more intuitive and efficient for users.

Naver has emphasized that Cue: relies on “multistep” reasoning technology to deliver credible and logical answers. When users pose complex questions, Cue: guides them through the logical steps it took to formulate the responses.

For example, if a user is seeking recommendations for hiking trails in a specific mountain range using Cue:. In response, Cue: goes beyond a simple list of tracks. It provides comprehensive information, including trail difficulty ratings, estimated completion times, and nearby amenities such as rest areas and viewpoints.

Moreover, Cue: suggests options for accommodations and dining options in the vicinity to assist in trip planning. Alongside these practical details, Cue: also directs users to additional sources for an in-depth exploration of hiking in that region.

CEO Choi Soo-yeon expressed her confidence in their new beta launch. “Naver stands as a global platform boasting unparalleled content and an expansive service ecosystem. Our dedication to upholding a leadership role in the age of productive artificial intelligence remains steadfast. We will persist in augmenting connectivity and value through state-of-the-art technology and distinctive utility,” she stated.

What distinguishes Cue: further is its integration with various online services within Naver’s ecosystem.

Another example is when users plan a weekend getaway or search for instructions on preparing a specific culinary dish along with ingredient sourcing. Cue: offers a seamless transition from information retrieval to practical application. Not only does it furnish pertinent details, but it also simplifies the subsequent steps.

Users can secure accommodations or make dining reservations directly through the integrated services available within the Cue: platform. This cohesive integration of search, shopping, reservation, and payment functionalities enhances the user journey, eradicating the need for disjointed interactions across various platforms.

Naver envisions that Cue: ‘s integration with its suite of online services, including Naver Shopping and Naver Place, will significantly enhance the AI search engine’s performance.

However, Cue: adheres to guidelines similar to CLOVA X, avoiding engagement with sensitive topics like politics. While the search engine performs well in tasks such as generating poems or titles, some users have observed that its creativity output may be comparatively lower than other AI services.

The company plans to refine and expand Cue: throughout the trial period, to gradually integrate it into Naver’s integrated search engine starting from November 2023. Currently, Cue: is available in a closed-beta version on PC, accessible with a Naver ID.

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