I've been a product manager at one of China's biggest tech firms. Here's how Chinese AI products are built differently.

The AI startup ecosystem in China is experiencing significant growth, showcasing a distinct approach to product development compared to its Western counterparts. Yilin Zhang, an AI product manager at Kuse and former team member at Meituan, unveils the unique characteristics of Chinese AI products that stem from the competitive landscape. Zhang, who holds a master's degree in computer science from Tsinghua University, started his career at Meituan, a leading tech firm in China known for its local service platform. During his time there, he contributed to two notable AI projects: a consumer-facing AI assistant for various tasks, including food ordering, and a merchant-facing AI agent designed to optimize business operations, such as managing reservations and orders. One key aspect that sets Chinese AI development apart is the rapid acceleration of innovation, particularly around 2025. The surge of interest in AI technologies, exemplified by the emergence of DeepSeek, prompted major companies to intensify their AI initiatives. This competitive environment pushed firms to focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness, which have become essential for survival in the crowded market. Zhang notes that prior to 2021, many Chinese tech firms were primarily focused on internal competition, which drove them to refine their operational strategies to an impressive level of efficiency. This urgency to innovate led to a shift towards open-source models and cost-effective solutions, particularly as international restrictions limited access to resources like GPUs. The differences between Chinese and international markets also shape product design and user expectations. In China, consumers typically prefer free software options, with many mass-market AI products, such as Doubao, prioritizing widespread usage over direct monetization. This contrasts with international products, which often target users engaged in high-value tasks and are designed for desktop environments. Moreover, the intense competition in China's tech scene has cultivated a culture of meticulous attention to user feedback. Product managers often invest considerable effort in refining even the smallest features to capture user interest, a luxury that less competitive markets may not afford. After several years at Meituan, Zhang transitioned to Kuse, an AI startup, seeking a more agile work environment. He emphasizes that the fast-paced evolution of AI technology can make larger companies feel sluggish in their development cycles. With the rise of AI startups, there is a noticeable shift in career paths for young professionals, moving away from traditional routes in civil service or big tech firms toward entrepreneurial ventures. As AI continues to transform industries, Zhang believes that by 2025, not engaging with AI will be akin to being stuck in the early days of the PC internet, missing the wave of the mobile internet revolution. His insights reflect a rapidly changing landscape where innovation and adaptability are key to success in the tech world.