TMTPOST -- As the popularity of ChatGPT sweeps across the globe, two Chinese giants in the local online-to-offline services sector, Didi Chuxing and Meituan, are now focusing their research and development efforts on generative AI technologies.

Didi Chuxing on Wednesday launched an internal version of its collaborative AI product, “DC Super Assistant,” powered by generative AI technology. This product features a conversation assistant, Q&A intelligence, document assistance, and smart search capabilities. Developed by Didi’s efficiency platform department, it is currently in the internal testing phase, aimed at enhancing organizational productivity and work efficiency. 

Also on Wednesday, Meituan began testing a generative AI-based semantic understanding entertainment mini-program called “Miao Shua.” Users can upload images, which the program automatically identifies and translates into humorous captions. Prior to the release of this report, Didi had not commented publicly on the related product information.

Responding to inquiries from AsianFin, Miao Shua development team said that as a startup project, Miao Shua is designed to provide users with an engaging and fun AI interaction experience. The product is still in its trial phase, and the team welcomes user feedback to continuously iterate and improve the product's features and technology for a better user experience.

Founded in 2010, Meituan has become the largest publicly-traded technology retail company in China. It officially listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on September 20, 2018, becoming the second new economy stock with dual-class H-shares after Xiaomi.

With the advent of large AI models, Meituan acquired AI company Beyond Light Years, founded by Wang Huiwen, in June 2023 for approximately 2.065 billion yuan. In November 2023, Meituan's large model “Tonghui” received approval for external services. Additionally, Meituan has internal divisions focused on technological innovation and computational power, and has invested in several unicorns, including Zhipu AI.

Didi Chuxing was founded in June 2012 by Cheng Wei, a former deputy general manager of Alipay's B2C division, who started the company with one million yuan in personal savings and 700,000 yuan from angel investor Wang Gang. Didi went public on the New York Stock Exchange on June 30, 2021, under the ticker “DIDI.” However, five months later, the company announced its plans to delist from the NYSE and prepare for a listing in Hong Kong.

 In October 2023, Didi set up an AI model team internally, led by Chai Hua, head of Didi’s map and public transport division and chair of the algorithm committee. In March 2024, Didi Chuxing Large Model received approval for external operation and services.

Reports indicated that the Didi large model plans to enhance the efficiency of personal and corporate travel scenarios. Notably, Didi holds an internal “hackathon” every October 24, where several generative AI applications were showcased this year, including the DC Super Assistant.

During an internal event on Tuesday evening, attended by over 800 employees, the technical lead disclosed that Didi is increasing its investment in generative AI business operations, now boasting over 1000TB of data. In addition to the Super Assistant, Didi plans to test more applications similar to AI agents internally. The company intends to provide conversational AI services based on a large model integrated with business systems, as well as develop a skill system based on the Super Assistant to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

According to recent media reports, Didi has been preparing for a potential IPO in Hong Kong by 2025, although the company has stated that there is currently no timeline for the IPO.

Didi's first-quarter financial report for 2024, released in May, indicated total revenue of 49.1 billion yuan, representing a 14.9% year-on-year increase, with an operating cash flow of -140 million yuan, down from 330 million yuan in the same period last year. As of March 31 of this year, Didi held a cash reserve of 22.9 billion yuan.

(Note: US$1 equals 7.12 yuan)