Ant Group’s AQ tops China’s AI-native healthcare apps

Ant Group has introduced a series of new features to its AI health platform AQ, sharpening its focus on chronic disease management and support for an ageing population. The updates are designed to help older adults monitor day-to-day health indicators more easily and maintain better long-term habits with AI-enabled assistance.

Among the new tools is Smart Data Recognition, which allows users to photograph readings from blood pressure monitors or blood glucose meters. The system then provides instant analysis, follow-up health prompts, and alerts for abnormal results that may require medical attention.

AQ has also partnered with Yuwell, one of China’s largest home healthcare device makers, to launch an AI-enhanced blood pressure monitor. With the user’s permission, readings are uploaded automatically to the app and compiled into weekly health reports to support more consistent blood pressure management.

Other additions include medication reminders for those managing chronic conditions, aimed at reducing missed doses, and Family Health Sharing, a feature that lets relatives access each other’s medical records and health check reports. The tool is designed to help children play a more active role in supporting the care of ageing parents.

The new functions come as AQ continues to gain momentum in China’s competitive AI app landscape. The platform has recently been recognised as one of the country’s top seven AI-native apps, and the only healthcare-focused entry on the list, based on QuestMobile’s latest rankings. It also recorded the group’s fastest compound growth rate, reaching 83.4%.

First launched as an Alipay mini-programme in September 2024 and released as an independent app in June 2025, AQ has rapidly expanded its reach. By September this year, it had served 140 million users across the country. The platform now provides more than 100 AI-enabled services, including doctor recommendations, medical report interpretation, and personalised health guidance.

Its rise coincides with China’s accelerating demographic transition. By around 2035, more than 400 million people—over 30% of the population—will be aged 60 or above, according to projections from the National Health Commission. The shift is expected to intensify demand for healthcare access, with AI-powered services playing an increasingly important role in meeting it.

AQ already offers digital access to over 5,000 hospitals, supports online consultations with around 200,000 doctors, and features more than 300 AI ‘Doctor Agents’ developed with leading clinicians and top hospital departments nationwide.