Core Insights - The article discusses the evolution of the AI landscape in China, highlighting the shift from a competitive "hundred models war" to a focus on application ecosystems, characterized by the emergence of "invisible sects" linked by technology, talent networks, and capital [1] - It contrasts two main factions: the "Tsinghua system," represented by companies like Zhipu and Moonlight, and the "Alibaba system," represented by entrepreneurs from Alibaba, both of which are shaping the future of the domestic AI industry [1] Origin: Academic Roots and Industrial Foundations - The "Tsinghua system" traces its origins to the Knowledge Engineering Group (KEG) at Tsinghua University, led by Professor Tang Jie, focusing on knowledge graphs, graph neural networks, and pre-trained models, embodying a traditional academic research approach [1][3] - Zhipu, as a direct descendant of KEG, aims to commercialize decades of research, led by CEO Zhang Peng, who emphasizes a theoretical-driven path distinct from mainstream models like GPT and BERT [3] - Moonlight, founded by Yang Zhilin, combines theoretical depth with engineering execution, leveraging international experience to create innovative products like the Kimi intelligent assistant, which supports extensive context input [5] Divergence: Technical Lineage and Entrepreneurial Orientation - The "Tsinghua system" is characterized by a "theory-driven innovation" approach, focusing on fundamental model architecture challenges, as seen in Zhipu's GLM series and Moonlight's emphasis on long-text processing capabilities [10][12] - In contrast, the "Alibaba system" adopts a "scene-driven engineering" approach, optimizing model deployment around specific business needs, emphasizing product efficiency and industry adaptability [12] - The founders of the "Tsinghua system" often come from academic backgrounds, while the "Alibaba system" features battle-hardened entrepreneurs with a pragmatic, market-sensitive approach [12][13] Competition and Cooperation: Complex Relationships - The competition between the "Tsinghua system" and "Alibaba system" revolves around attracting top AI talent, GPU resources, and defining the next generation of AI applications, with both sides vying for market leadership [14] - Despite their rivalry, there are cooperative elements, as Alibaba strategically invests in promising startups from the "Tsinghua system," creating a complex "co-opetition" dynamic [14][16] - This relationship allows Alibaba to maintain its technological edge while also integrating cutting-edge innovations from external startups into its ecosystem [16] Future Directions: Defining New Paradigms - The rise of both systems reflects the diversity of AI development paths in China, emphasizing the need for integration between theoretical depth and commercial acumen [17] - Future competition will hinge on the ability of both factions to adapt, with "Tsinghua system" researchers needing to transition into product-oriented roles, while "Alibaba system" entrepreneurs must deepen their technical foundations [17] - The ultimate outcome may not be a single dominant faction but the emergence of new AI enterprises that blend the strengths of both systems, fostering a more mature and competitive landscape [17]