Tech Visionary Backs ByteDance's AI Phone Gamble

In a recent Weibo post that sparked industry chatter, veteran entrepreneur Luo Yonghao threw his support behind ByteDance's unconventional "Doubao Phone" project. Known for his candid tech commentary, Luo didn't mince words about the experimental device's significance.

"Whether this phone succeeds or fails," Luo wrote, "just taking this leap deserves applause." His praise focused less on the product itself and more on what it represents - ByteDance's willingness to push boundaries in artificial intelligence integration.

Testing the Waters

The Chinese tech giant quietly released its first batch of Doubao Phone prototypes through partner ZTE Communications earlier this month. Marketed as the Nubia M153 with exclusive Doubao AI assistant features, these test units carried premium specs (16GB RAM/512GB storage) at a surprisingly accessible ¥3,499 price point.

Industry insiders confirm only about 30,000 units were produced initially - barely a drop in China's smartphone ocean. But supply chain sources reveal development hasn't stopped there. A second-generation model is reportedly already underway for late 2026 release.

Ecosystem Over Hardware

Interestingly, Doubao representatives clarified they're not aiming to become smartphone manufacturers. Instead, they're pursuing an "ecosystem cooperation" strategy - working with multiple hardware partners to embed their AI assistant across different brands.

This approach mirrors how Google distributes Android while avoiding direct competition with device makers. For ByteDance, better known for TikTok and Toutiao than hardware, it represents a pragmatic path into consumers' pockets.

The Inevitable AI Future

Luo's commentary went beyond product specifics to address broader technological shifts. "AI assistants will transform daily life completely," he predicted. "Future generations will look back at this period as pivotal."

The entrepreneur-turned-investor knows disruptive tech when he sees it - having founded smartphone company Smartisan before its acquisition by ByteDance in 2021. His endorsement lends credibility to what might otherwise be dismissed as another tech giant's vanity project.

Key Points:

• Limited release: Initial Doubao Phone run was small-scale market testing
• Strategic partnerships: ByteDance focusing on software integration rather than hardware production
• Industry validation: Luo Yonghao sees long-term potential despite uncertain immediate success
• Next generation: Second model reportedly in development for late 2026 launch