Core Viewpoint - The ongoing public dispute between Xiaomi and Gree Electric has intensified, particularly surrounding Xiaomi's announcement of a "10-year free repair" service for its air conditioners, which has drawn criticism from Gree's marketing director, highlighting the competitive dynamics in the air conditioning and home appliance industry [1][2][10]. Group 1: Company Announcements and Responses - Xiaomi's president, Lu Weibing, announced the launch of the "10-year free repair" service for Xiaomi air conditioners, emphasizing that this service will not incur costs for users and will cover all product categories [4][6]. - Gree's marketing director, Zhu Lei, mocked Xiaomi's new policy, suggesting that true strength lies in not needing repairs rather than making promises [1][7]. - The public response to Xiaomi's policy has been largely positive, with many users expressing increased goodwill towards the brand, although there are still complaints from users not covered by the new policy [17]. Group 2: Competitive Dynamics - The rivalry between Xiaomi and Gree has escalated, with both companies engaging in multiple rounds of public exchanges over service policies, sales data, and product quality throughout the year [2][12]. - Gree remains the market leader in air conditioning, holding a 23.36% share in the online market and 28.09% in the offline market, while Xiaomi has shown the fastest growth rate, with a 14.78% share online [15][16]. - The competitive landscape is characterized by a price war among various air conditioning manufacturers, with Xiaomi leveraging its smart home ecosystem to drive sales growth [15][16]. Group 3: Product Quality and Safety Issues - Xiaomi has faced significant scrutiny due to recent product recalls, including the recall of 116,887 SU7 electric vehicles and 146,891 charging devices, which has been used by Gree to question Xiaomi's product quality [8][9][10]. - The ongoing quality and safety concerns surrounding Xiaomi's products have become focal points for Gree's criticisms, suggesting that these issues undermine Xiaomi's claims of superior service [10].

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing public dispute between Xiaomi Group and Gree Electric Appliances highlights the intensifying competition in the air conditioning and home appliance industry, with both companies vying for market influence and consumer trust through contrasting service policies and product quality claims [2][9]. Group 1: Xiaomi's New Policy - Xiaomi has officially launched a "10-year free repair" service for its air conditioners, which covers all categories including wall-mounted, floor-standing, and central air conditioning units [3][4]. - Xiaomi's president, Lu Weibing, emphasized that this service aims to reduce long-term costs for users without transferring costs to them [3][11]. Group 2: Gree's Response - Gree's market director, Zhu Lei, criticized Xiaomi's new policy, suggesting that a decade without repairs is a true measure of quality, referencing Xiaomi's recent recalls of 116,887 SU7 electric vehicles and 146,891 charging devices due to safety concerns [2][6][8]. - Gree's leadership has consistently pointed out Xiaomi's product quality issues as a counter to Xiaomi's claims of superior service [8][10]. Group 3: Industry Competition - The air conditioning market is experiencing heightened competition, with both Xiaomi and Gree engaging in multiple public disputes over service policies, sales data, and product quality throughout the year [9][11]. - According to data from Aowei Cloud Network, Gree holds a leading market share of 23.36% in the online air conditioning market, while Xiaomi has a growing share of 14.78%, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 3.77% [11][12]. Group 4: Consumer Sentiment - The introduction of the "10-year free repair" policy has garnered positive feedback from many users on social media platforms, although there are still complaints from existing Xiaomi air conditioner users regarding product quality issues not covered by the new policy [13].

Group 1 - Xiaomi officially announced the upgrade of its Mijia air conditioner service from 6 years to 10 years of free warranty, covering all product categories including wall-mounted, floor-standing, and central air conditioners [1][2][5] - The 10-year free warranty includes free repairs, on-site service, labor, diagnostics, parts replacement, and refrigerant refills, ensuring comprehensive coverage for all core components of the air conditioner [5] - Xiaomi's President, Lu Weibing, emphasized that the service aims to elevate industry standards and reduce long-term costs for users, encouraging competitors to follow suit [5][11] Group 2 - Gree's executive Zhu Lei responded to Xiaomi's announcement by stating that a 10-year warranty is a promise, but not needing repairs for 10 years demonstrates true quality [7][8] - Zhu Lei highlighted that Gree was the first to propose a 10-year free warranty in 2021, backed by 30 years of market validation and a declining after-sales failure rate [8][15] - He expressed hope that Xiaomi and other competitors would join the 10-year warranty initiative, focusing on product quality and consumer trust rather than short-term sales figures [15] Group 3 - In August, it was reported that Xiaomi's online air conditioner sales surpassed Gree's, prompting discussions about market dynamics [11][14] - Data from July indicated that Gree held a market share of 16.41% in online air conditioner sales, while Xiaomi had 13.50%, suggesting Gree remained in the lead [14] - The competitive landscape is shifting, with Xiaomi's recent service upgrade potentially impacting consumer perceptions and market share [11][12]

Group 1 - Xiaomi officially launched a "10-year free repair" service for its air conditioners, as announced by President Lu Weibing on social media [1] - Gree's market director Zhu Lei responded, emphasizing that a 10-year free repair is a commitment, but not needing repairs for ten years demonstrates product strength [1] - Zhu Lei highlighted that Gree first introduced the "10-year free repair" concept in 2021, backed by 30 years of market validation and a continuously decreasing after-sales failure rate [1] Group 2 - Zhu Lei referenced Confucius, suggesting that companies should ensure their current products are reliable before making bold claims about future commitments [1]

Core Insights - The global air conditioning industry is shifting from a focus on individual technological breakthroughs to building and collaborating within ecosystems, as highlighted by the 17th China Heating and Cooling Industry Development Summit [1][3] - Changhong Air Conditioning won two prestigious awards at the summit, namely "Annual Excellent Brand" and "Annual Innovative Product," showcasing its strong brand power and innovative capabilities [1][3] Industry Trends - The summit's theme "Intelligent Manufacturing in Heating and Cooling: Coexistence and Win-Win" emphasizes the importance of technological collaboration, standard building, and resource integration for industry breakthroughs [3] - The recognition of Changhong Air Conditioning reflects the industry's need to focus on brand strength and continuous innovation driven by user demands to maintain competitiveness in a globalized industrial transformation [7] Company Achievements - Changhong Air Conditioning has nearly 30 years of experience in the refrigeration field, successfully transitioning from hardware manufacturing to providing scenario-based experiences, evolving into a "smart air steward" that actively responds to user needs [5] - The "Giant Energy Saving Pro" product exemplifies this transformation with its energy efficiency rating exceeding the first level, saving up to 3000 kWh, and features such as a large air circulation volume and advanced technologies to enhance user comfort [8]

Core Insights - The Chinese air conditioning industry is projected to reach a total sales volume of 196 million units in the 2025 cooling year, representing a year-on-year growth of 11.5%, with domestic shipments exceeding 100 million units for the first time, growing by 8.7% [1] - The air conditioning market has seen a few leading brands maintain stable growth over nearly 30 years, with AUX emerging as a "minority" and "leader" in the industry [1] - The industry is entering a critical phase of "boundary-breaking reconstruction," where user-centric value reshaping and technological innovation are essential for overcoming homogenized competition [1][2] Company Strategy and Philosophy - AUX has successfully navigated the air conditioning industry's challenges through a dual strategy of "small steps fast" and "big steps slow," establishing itself as a leader capable of transcending both time and industry cycles [2] - The company's philosophy emphasizes "quality as the foundation and innovation as the soul," which has been integrated into all aspects of its operations, enabling it to adapt to competitive pressures over time [2][3] - AUX's commitment to quality and continuous innovation has allowed it to build a robust defense against market challenges, demonstrating that Chinese home appliance companies can gain global trust through these principles [2][3] Competitive Advantages - AUX has developed a "four comprehensive capabilities" framework that enhances its competitive edge in the global air conditioning market, aligning with the industry's shift towards ecological and business model reconstruction [4] - The company has established a full industry chain layout, comprehensive channel distribution, and a full product category strategy, which are essential competitive thresholds in the air conditioning sector [4] - AUX's global operations cover over 150 countries and regions, with international revenue accounting for a significant portion of its overall income, showcasing its successful globalization strategy [5] Innovation and Technology - AUX has embraced cutting-edge technologies and formed partnerships with leading tech companies to enhance its product offerings, particularly in AI and voice technology [6] - The company has achieved a breakthrough in self-research and production of compressors through strategic collaboration with Panasonic, solidifying its core competitive capabilities [6] - AUX's focus on user needs has led to the establishment of a comprehensive lifecycle service system, enhancing customer experience and brand trust [7] Market Position and Future Outlook - AUX's recent listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange marks a significant milestone, positioning the company for further global brand development and operational expansion [8] - The company aims to transition from a manufacturer to a provider of smart air solutions, leveraging its diverse brand portfolio to meet varied consumer demands [9] - AUX's 30-year journey illustrates that true global competitiveness stems from a commitment to quality, innovation, and respect for user needs, integrating its growth into the global industrial upgrade wave [9]

Core Viewpoint - China's air conditioning exports are projected to reach nearly 94 million units in the 2025 cooling year, marking a 14.7% year-on-year increase, with Europe experiencing a significant growth of 39.5% [1] Group 1: Market Demand and Growth - The increase in air conditioning exports is driven by extreme summer temperatures in Europe, where many regions have seen temperatures exceed 40°C, leading to a shift in perception of air conditioning from a luxury to a necessity [1] - China's air conditioning brands, including Gree, Midea, and Haier, have increased their market share in Europe from 27% in 2023 to 41% in 2025 [1] - The penetration rate of Chinese air conditioning products in Europe has risen from 12% in 2020 to 27% in 2025, indicating a rapid market expansion [3] Group 2: Competitive Advantages - Chinese air conditioning products are competitive due to their energy efficiency, with many meeting the EU's A+++ standard, and their prices being 20%-30% lower than local European brands [1] - The focus on green and energy-efficient technologies has become a key selling point for Chinese air conditioning products, aligning with strict EU environmental standards [2] - Innovations such as low-noise systems and solar-powered air conditioning units are enhancing the green competitiveness of Chinese brands [2] Group 3: Targeted Innovation and Market Strategy - Chinese air conditioning companies are adopting targeted innovation strategies, such as offering portable air conditioning units that are easy to install, catering to the high installation costs in Europe [3] - Products designed for specific demographics, such as simplified controls for elderly users and emotionally designed products for younger consumers, are part of the differentiated approach to market entry [3] - Companies like Midea and Gree have invested in local operations and R&D in Europe to better understand consumer needs and adapt products accordingly [3] Group 4: Future Market Opportunities and Challenges - The International Energy Agency predicts that the number of air conditioning units in the EU will double by 2050, creating a demand for over 10 million units annually in the coming years [4] - However, European manufacturers face a significant supply gap, with local production capacity projected at only 3.2 million units in 2024, presenting a market opportunity for Chinese companies [4] - Chinese air conditioning manufacturers must prepare for stricter EU regulations on refrigerants by 2026, which will require about 35% of current exports to undergo technical modifications [4] - Long-term competitiveness will depend on transitioning from price competition to value competition, focusing on brand building, localization, and sustainable technology development [4]

Core Viewpoint - The air conditioning industry is undergoing a critical phase of "breaking through and restructuring," driven by policies promoting low-carbon transformation, extreme high temperatures, and consumer subsidy policies, leading to increased market demand. The consumer focus is shifting from basic temperature control to "comfort + health + high-end" upgrades, with comfort and health-oriented air conditioners emerging as clear new growth points [1]. Group 1: Environmental Factors - The dual drivers of policy and technological innovation are reshaping the air conditioning market, emphasizing energy efficiency and low-carbon transformation, which is expected to stabilize the industry's lifecycle development [2]. - National subsidy policies have reduced consumer purchase costs, while extreme high temperatures have directly stimulated market demand, enhancing air conditioning sales and positively impacting the related supply chain [3]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The air conditioning market is entering a mature phase with stable growth, where online sales account for 60% of the market, and traditional e-commerce remains the core traffic entry point. Price differentiation is evident, with low-priced and high-priced segments both seeing increased market share [5]. Group 3: Consumer Demand - Social media discussions reflect the evolving demands for air conditioning, with energy efficiency, comfort, cooling performance, aesthetics, and health becoming the top ten topics of interest for 2025 [9]. - The evolution of air conditioning from a "single temperature regulator" to a "quality lifestyle hub" that integrates comfort, health, and aesthetics is evident, with a focus on improving air quality and harmonizing with home decor [11]. - The high-end air conditioning market is evolving towards a comprehensive experience that combines "extreme comfort + health purification + aesthetic integration + smart connectivity" [13]. Group 4: Opportunities and Trends - The transition from "selling products" to "selling lifestyles" is a significant opportunity, focusing on specific living scenarios, spatial functions, and emotional needs of users [15]. - The demand for air conditioning is shifting towards comfort, health, and high-end features, indicating a deeper consumer need for quality and experience [17]. - The main consumer groups for air conditioning are shifting towards younger generations, particularly those born in the 2000s and 1990s, with a focus on comfort in family settings [19]. Group 5: Purchase Behavior - Consumers are increasingly motivated by the need for functionality and quality of life improvements, moving from basic needs to higher quality and better experiences [21]. - The primary information channel for consumers is e-commerce platforms, with JD.com recognized as the leading source for appliance information and purchases [24]. - Performance and quality are critical factors in purchase decisions, with consumers becoming more rational and focused on comprehensive experiences rather than just price sensitivity [28]. Group 6: Product Features and User Feedback - High satisfaction rates (over 99%) for features like "no-wind" and "soft wind" indicate strong consumer preference for comfort and health functionalities in air conditioning products [58]. - The integration of health features, such as air purification and self-cleaning technologies, is becoming a key selling point, enhancing the overall value of air conditioning products [57]. Group 7: Collaborative Innovations - JD.com collaborates with major air conditioning brands to promote comfort and health technologies, successfully driving sales of various air conditioning products that meet evolving consumer demands [61].

Core Insights - Gree has transitioned from an agency model to brand self-operation in Southeast Asia, marking a significant shift in strategy [1][2] - Chinese home appliance brands are expected to achieve an average growth rate of over 30% in Southeast Asia this year, with market share potentially exceeding 50% in the coming years [1][4] Group 1: Market Dynamics - Gree's revenue from self-owned brands in Southeast Asia has increased from 30% a decade ago to 80% currently [2] - The air conditioning market in Thailand has become a key manufacturing hub, with annual production capacity exceeding 20 million units [3] - The ASEAN market is projected to grow, with a GDP compound growth rate of 4.3% and a population of approximately 680 million [3] Group 2: Competitive Landscape - The market share distribution among Chinese, Japanese, and Korean brands in Southeast Asia is currently 30:40:30, with expectations for Chinese brands to surpass 50% within two years [4] - Major Chinese brands like Haier and Midea are expanding their production capacities in Thailand, with Haier planning to add 4 million units and Hisense targeting 12 million units annually [5] Group 3: Consumer Trends - Southeast Asian consumers exhibit a strong preference for cost-effective products, which benefits Chinese brands due to their cost advantages in the supply chain [5] - The region's young population and low ownership rates of air conditioning units indicate significant growth potential [3][5] Group 4: Challenges and Opportunities - The rise of social e-commerce platforms like TikTok in Southeast Asia presents new sales opportunities for Chinese brands [6] - Despite a recent decline in air conditioning sales due to weather and high previous year bases, the long-term outlook remains positive, with expectations for the market to exceed $5 billion by 2028 [6]

Core Viewpoint - Haier Air Conditioning has successfully led the revision of the national standard GB/T 33658-2025, marking a significant upgrade from the 2017 version, reflecting the company's strategic drive for technological iteration and industry comfort benchmarks [1][2] Group 1: Standard Upgrade - The new standard separates the assessment of cooling and heating comfort indicators, addressing user experience needs across different seasons [1] - New metrics such as "heating time" and local equivalent temperature limits for 16 body parts have been introduced to enhance user comfort [1] Group 2: Technological Innovation - Haier's AI technology strategy and global R&D layout support the standard upgrade, with 13 R&D centers and 17 manufacturing bases enhancing core technologies [2] - The self-developed "heat flow defrosting" technology significantly reduces defrosting time in low-temperature, high-humidity environments [2] - The "Energy-saving AI" product series has sold over 1.1 million units, becoming a market hit [2] Group 3: Market Performance - According to GfK data, Haier Air Conditioning achieved a market share of 21.4% from January to August, becoming the fastest-growing brand among the top three [2] - The dual breakthroughs in market performance and standard leadership validate the foresight and execution of Haier's "AI + Healthy Air" strategy [2] Group 4: Comprehensive Solutions - In addition to the thermal comfort standard, Haier has also led the release of two other national standards related to noise testing and safety requirements for air purification systems, showcasing its comprehensive capabilities in air solutions [2]