Core Insights - The article highlights the transformative impact of AI technology on Meitu's product offerings, particularly through the introduction of the AI Agent product RoboNeo, which enables users to edit photos with simple commands [1][5][6] - Meitu is shifting from being labeled merely as a "photo editing company" to a significant player in the global imaging tools industry, leveraging continuous AI advancements to enhance its competitive position [2][4] Global Expansion and Market Position - Meitu began its global expansion in 2013, recognizing the growing demand for imaging and beautification tools as mobile internet and smartphones became widespread [4] - The recent surge in generative AI has accelerated Meitu's global outreach, allowing for rapid product iterations and broader user engagement [4][5] - By June 30, 2025, Meitu's global monthly active users reached 280 million, with users outside mainland China numbering approximately 98 million, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 15.3% [5] Product Development and User Engagement - Meitu's AI tools, such as Meitu Xiuxiu and Beauty Camera, are designed to address user pain points effectively, contributing to a 45.2% year-on-year revenue growth in the imaging and design product segment, amounting to 1.35 billion yuan [6][8] - The company has launched various AI applications that have topped app store rankings in multiple countries, indicating strong market acceptance and user engagement [4][5] Focus on Productivity Tools - Meitu is strategically targeting the productivity sector by offering lightweight, low-threshold tools tailored for small businesses and individual creators, particularly in e-commerce and content creation [8][9] - The monthly active users for Meitu's productivity tools reached 23 million by June 30, 2025, with a significant increase of over 90% in international markets [9] Technological Innovation and Competitive Advantage - Meitu has established a strong technological foundation through its MT Lab, focusing on AI research in deep learning and computer vision, which has resulted in a robust portfolio of patents and academic contributions [12][13] - The company's dual focus on technology and aesthetic understanding creates a competitive edge, allowing it to deliver superior user experiences that resonate with local cultural preferences [14] Localization Strategy - Meitu's localization strategy emphasizes understanding and integrating local user needs and cultural nuances into product design, which is crucial for success in diverse global markets [14] - The company aims to enhance its understanding of cultural demands, particularly in Western markets, to develop world-class products [14]
美图：凭AI“破壁式成长”，改写全球影像行业竞争格局