Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rise of AI-generated storefront images used by takeout restaurants to mislead consumers, creating a disparity between the online representation and the actual physical store conditions [6][19]. Group 1: Consumer Experience - Consumers are increasingly deceived by takeout restaurants using AI-generated images that portray them as bustling dine-in establishments, leading to disappointment upon discovering the reality [7][8]. - A specific case is highlighted where a consumer, Chen Ying, was attracted to a restaurant based on its appealing online image, only to find it was a small takeout shop with no dine-in options [8][11]. Group 2: Social Media and Public Reaction - Many users on social media platforms like Xiaohongshu and Weibo have shared similar experiences of being misled by AI-generated storefront images, indicating a widespread issue [11][13]. - A pattern has emerged where consumers notice that restaurants using AI images often have little to no correlation with their actual storefronts, leading to a growing distrust [11][15]. Group 3: AI Image Generation and Industry Practices - The article notes that the proliferation of AI tools has enabled the mass production of these misleading storefront images, with various software available for generating such visuals [19][21]. - An emerging industry has developed around providing these AI-generated images, with services available on e-commerce platforms for as little as 10 to 40 yuan [21][23]. Group 4: Regulatory Response - In response to the rise of "ghost kitchens" and misleading practices, food delivery platforms like Meituan and Ele.me have increased their efforts to combat these issues, with Meituan reporting a 41% increase in the number of problematic merchants dealt with in 2024 compared to 2023 [23][24]. - Both platforms are enhancing their verification processes to ensure the legitimacy of merchants, including the use of AI technology to identify and eliminate fraudulent listings [24][25].

Core Viewpoint - The rise of AI-generated storefront images has led to a proliferation of misleading online food delivery businesses, where actual storefronts do not match the appealing images presented online [2][4][10]. Group 1: Misleading Practices - Many food delivery businesses are using AI-generated images to create a false impression of being popular dine-in restaurants, attracting customers who are unaware of the deception [2][5][6]. - Consumers like Chen Ying have been misled by these AI images, believing they are ordering from well-established restaurants, only to discover that the actual locations are small takeout shops [5][6][10]. - Social media platforms have seen numerous complaints from users who have been deceived by these AI storefronts, highlighting a pattern of misleading practices among certain food delivery businesses [11][13]. Group 2: AI Image Production - The production of AI storefront images is becoming a widespread practice, with various AI tools available that can generate appealing images for businesses [20][22]. - A new industry is emerging around the creation and sale of these AI-generated images, with services available on e-commerce platforms for as little as 10 to 40 yuan [23][25]. - Some businesses are not only providing AI images but also offering additional services like "store operation" and "multiple store openings," indicating a growing trend in the food delivery sector [25][26]. Group 3: Regulatory Response - Major food delivery platforms are taking steps to combat the issue of misleading storefronts, with Meituan reporting a 41% increase in the number of violations addressed in 2024 compared to 2023 [26][27]. - Both Meituan and Ele.me have implemented stricter verification processes for merchants, including enhanced checks on business licenses and physical inspections of high-risk locations [26][27]. - Despite these efforts, the prevalence of AI-generated storefront images suggests that consumers need to remain vigilant when ordering food online [28].

Core Viewpoint - The rise of AI-generated storefront images in the food delivery industry has led to consumer deception, as many restaurants misrepresent themselves as dine-in establishments while operating as small takeout shops [1][5][18]. Group 1: Consumer Experience - Consumers, like Chen Ying, have been misled by attractive AI-generated images of restaurants, believing they are ordering from reputable dine-in locations [1][2]. - Many users on social media have reported similar experiences, discovering that the actual storefronts do not match the appealing online images [5][8]. Group 2: AI Image Usage - Numerous food delivery businesses are utilizing AI-generated storefront images to create a false impression of their establishments, often leading to consumer disappointment [10][12]. - The AI-generated images often depict spacious and busy restaurants, while the actual locations are small and primarily focused on takeout [6][10]. Group 3: Industry Response - Platforms like Meituan and Ele.me have been actively working to combat the issue of "ghost restaurants" by increasing the scrutiny of merchant qualifications and implementing stricter verification processes [18][19]. - Meituan reported handling 45,000 cases of merchant violations in 2024, a 41% increase from the previous year, while Ele.me has removed over 31,000 non-compliant merchants [18][19]. Group 4: Emerging Trends - A new industry trend has emerged where businesses offer services to create AI-generated storefront images, with prices ranging from 10 to 40 yuan, indicating a growing market for such deceptive practices [14][17]. - The proliferation of AI tools has facilitated the mass production of these misleading images, raising concerns about consumer trust in online food delivery services [12][14].