Hainan University (HNU) has officially launched the beta version of its self-developed campus AI agent “Xiaohai”, coupled with a localized full-capacity DeepSeek-R1 system. It represents a significant step toward integrating AI into teaching, research, and campus services, providing students and faculty with an efficient, stable, and locally optimized AI experience.

Login interface of Xiaohai

The Chinese name “Xiaohai” carries dual symbolism: “HAI” phonetically represents “Hainan University”, and meanwhile “H + AI” signifies the fusion of Hainan University (“H”) and Artificial Intelligence (“AI”). This reflects HNU’s deep commitment to AI-driven innovation by leveraging its own academic resources and research strengths.

Developed jointly by HNU’s Center for Information Technology Services and School of Cyberspace Security, Xiaohai integrates nearly 100,000 data records and HNU’s proprietary knowledge base, covering key areas such as academic services, student affairs, and research support. Powered by advanced natural language processing (NLP), Xiaohai can assist students and faculty 24/7 with academic planning, research resource access, and campus services. To meet diverse user needs, Xiaohai has offered a flexible service model.

Xiaohai’s application ——Study Planner

Xiaohai’s application ——Research Accelerator

Xiaohai’s application ——Campus Navigator

The default beta version of Xiaohai offers adaptive experiences for essential services, making it easier for students and faculty to navigate campus life. Additionally, users can customize its performance via adjustable AI models.

Following six months of system development and data training, Xiaohai entered private beta in October 2024. A total of 823 feedback reports were received before January 10, 2025, with the comprehensive rating averaging 8.27 (out of 10). HNU students and faculty can gain access via platforms including HNU’s official website, WeCom (Tencent’s enterprise communication platform), and ehall (HNU’s Electronic Hall) with authorized accounts.

According to Lin Weibo, Director of HNU’s Center for Information Technology Services, the launch of Xiaohai plus DeepSeek marks a significant milestone in HNU’s education digitalization strategy. Going forward, HNU aims to further enhance AI-powered services, push for deeper synergy between AI and higher education, and create a smarter, more efficient, and user-friendly digital campus.

Translated by Han Yunsheng

Proofread by Kuang Xiaowen, Yang Jie