ByteDance Doubles Down on AI Hardware with Douyin Phone 2 and Smart Glasses
ByteDance Accelerates AI Hardware Push
ByteDance isn't just stopping at viral videos - the company is charging full speed into AI hardware development. Their latest move? The highly anticipated Douyin Phone 2, expected to hit shelves by mid-2026.
Smartphone Strategy Takes Shape
The Beijing-based tech firm has adopted an interesting dual-track approach for its phone business:
- Deep customization continues through their partnership with Nubia, with supply chain sources indicating significantly higher production volumes than their first test model
- Ecosystem partnerships are expanding rapidly, with ByteDance negotiating permissions with major ride-hailing and food delivery platforms
- Manufacturer tiers have emerged - top brands get modular tech like the Doubao input method, while others integrate deeper system-level access points
Wearable Ambitions Come Into Focus
But phones are just part of the story. ByteDance's hardware roadmap reveals bigger ambitions:
AI Glasses Development: Three internal teams have narrowed down to two distinct approaches:
- A minimalist, display-free version launching post-Spring Festival
- A more advanced interactive model with display capabilities slated for Q4 2026
The company is also preparing other Doubao-powered devices including smart earphones, signaling serious commitment to building an AI hardware ecosystem.
Key Points:
- Douyin Phone 2 expected mid-to-late Q2 2026
- Partnership model varies by manufacturer tier
- Two distinct AI glasses models in development
- Wearables strategy complements smartphone push
