China Focus: AI livestreamers a controversial helper in China's online shopping craze

by Xinhua writers Zhao Jinzheng and Yao Yuan

BEIJING, Nov. 11 (Xinhua) -- After a long day of studying, Xu Qianhui jumped into a late-night livestream broadcast in search of some bargain snacks. It was the "Double 11," the annual online shopping extravaganza, and the broadcaster, a young lady with delicate makeup, was busy introducing assorted nuts while chatting with her viewers.

It took Xu five minutes