Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) today launched a new media platform and an AI mascot, Wavee, in response to specific calls outlined in last month’s Policy Address.

The Policy Address urged the broadcaster to strengthen its use of AI technologies and new media platforms in order to enhance production quality and efficiency, tell good stories about China and Hong Kong, and elevate its international communication.

Director of Broadcasting Angelina Kwan remarked that RTHK hopes to leverage its new platform and AI mascot to inject greater dynamism and approachability into its offerings, thereby drawing a wider audience, especially the younger generation, to tune in to RTHK's productions.

The new media platform includes content organised around five key themes: “Wa~ So Hong Kong”, which uncovers heartwarming human stories in local communities; “Wa~ So Cheeky” which takes a light-hearted look Hong Kong’s unique quirks; “Wa~ So Chill”, which introduces residents and visitors to the city’s signature events, cultural attractions and culinary scene; “Wa~ So Classic”, which leverages AI technology to restore precious footage from RTHK's archives, charting the city’s development through a compelling then-and-now format; and the forthcoming “Wa~ So Dramatic”, comprising short online dramas produced in a range of formats, including AI-generated, animated, live-action and hybrid content. 

RTHK said the new mascot’s design draws on the electromagnetic waves that underpin its radio and television services. It explained that Wavee embodies the rich heritage of RTHK’s long broadcasting history and carries deep significance as a symbol of delivering information to the people of Hong Kong.