Baidu bets on smartphone app platform to boost presence

Baidu Inc, the biggest Internet search provider in China, launched a new mobile application distribution platform on Thursday that allows smartphone owners to use apps without downloading them.

Company executives hope this "revolutionary" service will put Baidu back in the game in the mobile Internet sector, where the Beijing-based giant is losing its edge.

The mobile search product, called Light Apps, enables mobile users to access third-party apps through Baidu's search software on mobile devices. Baidu is adding more services, including online payments, travel guides and music, to Light Apps.