Alibaba slashes Qwen AI model prices by up to 80% on Qoder platform to lure US developers
Alibaba Group Holding has dramatically reduced the prices of its Qwen AI models by up to 80% on the Qoder agentic coding platform. This move is aimed at attracting developers globally, especially with strong competition from other firms like Anthropic and Zhipu AI. This "off-peak" deal is valid from 10 AM to 8 PM Eastern Time, specifically for users in the US. They noted on X that this timing aligns well with most American work hours. Additionally, the Qoderwork tool in China, which supports Qwen, is also included in this discount. Users can plan their tasks during the day or set commands to run overnight. This follows a recent half-price promotion for Qwen3.7-Max that just wrapped up, highlighting the fierce rivalry between US and Chinese AI firms.
Key facts
- Alibaba slashed Qwen AI model prices by up to 80% on Qoder platform.
- Discount runs from 10am to 8pm US Eastern Time.
- Promotion is branded as an 'off-peak' discount.
- Alibaba explicitly aims to capture American users.
- In China, discount applies to Qoderwork tool supporting Qwen models.
- Alibaba suggested Chinese users schedule tasks during day or queue commands before bed.
- Follows a half-price discount for Qwen3.7-Max that concluded earlier this week.
- Price cuts come amid intense rivalry between US and Chinese AI firms.
Entities
Institutions
- Alibaba Group Holding
- Anthropic
- Zhipu AI
- X (formerly Twitter)
Locations
- United States
- China
- Americas