速递｜字节AI再失大将，李航卸任AI Lab负责人，Seed团队进入调整期

Core Viewpoint - The recent restructuring at ByteDance's AI Lab, marked by the departure of its head Li Hang, indicates a strategic shift towards prioritizing AI as a core business rather than merely a technical support function, in response to competitive pressures from rivals like DeepSeek [1][2]. Group 1: Leadership Changes - Li Hang has officially transitioned from his role as head of the AI Lab to a consultant position, reflecting a significant organizational change [1]. - The AI Lab has been integrated into the Seed team, with former Google DeepMind VP Wu Yonghui now leading foundational research, indicating a consolidation of AI efforts within the company [2]. Group 2: Strategic Shift - The AI Lab, established in 2016, initially focused on cutting-edge research and contributed significantly to the growth of Douyin and Toutiao, but its role has evolved towards business support since 2020 [2]. - The rapid growth of DeepSeek's large model, which reached over 20 million daily active users within 21 days of launch, prompted ByteDance to reassess its AI strategy and implement deep reforms [2]. Group 3: Organizational Efficiency - The new structure of the Seed team is designed to be flatter and more efficient, emphasizing integration of research and production, which contrasts with the traditional research institute style of the AI Lab [2]. - This restructuring aims to reduce internal friction and concentrate resources on the main line of large model development, enhancing collaboration between model research and productization [2]. Group 4: Talent Movement - There have been notable personnel changes within ByteDance's AI teams, including the removal of key figures due to personal controversies and ongoing adjustments in various teams [3][4]. - The departure of high-profile talent from ByteDance has led to the emergence of several successful startups in the AI sector, highlighting the competitive landscape for AI talent [4][5][6].