Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-12-11 10:44Core Insights - The article highlights the strategic move of Meituan in the local life AI sector with the hiring of Pan Xin, a former leader at ByteDance's visual model platform, as the head of multimodal AI innovation [1][3] Group 1: Strategic Developments - Pan Xin's extensive experience in AI, including contributions to TensorFlow at Google Brain and leading the optimization of PaddlePaddle at Baidu, positions him as a key asset for Meituan's AI ambitions [3] - Since 2025, Meituan has accelerated its AI initiatives, developing its LongCat series of models and launching AI tools like "Kangaroo Advisor" and "Smart Shopkeeper" aimed at enhancing business operations [3][4] Group 2: Shift in Focus - Meituan's AI strategy has shifted from internal operational efficiency to external empowerment and commercialization, with a focus on providing intelligent tools for a vast number of merchants [4] - The company's founder, Wang Xing, has outlined a three-tier strategy emphasizing "AI at work, AI in products, and Building LLM," with a significant investment of billions aimed at integrating AI into various business processes [4] Group 3: Challenges and Opportunities - Pan Xin's mission involves transforming advanced multimodal AI technology into practical solutions for the local life industry, addressing challenges such as high inspection costs and data-driven decision-making [4][6] - Meituan's connection with over 7 million merchants and its merchant app provides a unique platform for scaling AI technology, although challenges remain in cost optimization and ensuring model stability in real-world scenarios [6]