Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the success of hearing-impaired delivery riders, particularly focusing on Yang Guoxin, who has excelled in the food delivery industry despite communication barriers, thanks to technological advancements and supportive policies [1][5][10]. Group 1: Technological Advancements - Meituan has developed a "Hearing-impaired Rider Care" feature that allows real-time voice-to-text communication, significantly reducing communication barriers for hearing-impaired riders [2][4]. - The use of AI technology enables instant conversion of voice to text for riders and text to voice for consumers, facilitating smoother interactions [2][4]. - Research indicates that digital technology can reduce the efficiency gap between hearing-impaired and regular riders by one-third, with communication barriers lowered by 38% [2][4]. Group 2: Employment Opportunities and Policies - The rise of the digital economy has opened new job opportunities for hearing-impaired individuals, moving beyond traditional roles to flexible jobs like delivery riders [5][6]. - Government policies, such as the "14th Five-Year Plan for the Protection and Development of Persons with Disabilities," support the employment of disabled individuals in new job forms [5][6]. - Meituan has a significant number of hearing-impaired riders, with 6,758 employed as of November 2024, indicating a growing acceptance and integration of this workforce [6]. Group 3: Training and Support - Training for hearing-impaired riders is still evolving, with a lack of systematic processes, but on-the-job training and peer support are being utilized [3][10]. - The ability to master the rider app and communicate effectively with merchants and consumers is crucial for success in the role [3][10]. - The article emphasizes the importance of social adaptability and industry-specific skills for hearing-impaired riders to excel in their roles [10]. Group 4: Challenges and Work Environment - Hearing-impaired riders face challenges such as not hearing order notifications, relying on frequent app refreshes to check for new orders [4][13]. - The high turnover rate among riders indicates a need for better long-term career development and support systems within the industry [11][13]. - Despite the challenges, the flexible nature of the job allows riders to balance personal life and work, with many choosing to leave temporarily rather than permanently [12][13].