ByteDance’s Doubao: Recent AI Model Launches, Feature Adjustments, and Hardware Collaborations

ByteDance’s AI assistant Doubao has been at the forefront of AI developments with a flurry of recent updates covering models, features, hardware integrations, and strategic directions. According to QuestMobile’s June report on domestic AI native app monthly active users (MAU), Doubao claimed the top spot with a 'gap first' position, amassing 3.8 million users.

Model advancements include the launch of Doubao 2.1 Pro large model, which marks a production-level milestone pushing AI productivity into a scalable new phase. Additionally, rumors indicate Byte’s video generation model Seedance 2.5 is set to debut in the experience center on July 6, with its API opening to users a week later.

Some features are being phased out: the 'App Generation' function has already ceased service, and the intelligent agent feature will be discontinued on July 15—users are advised to back up data in advance. Following Doubao’s lead, Alibaba’s Qianwen announced the shutdown of anthropomorphic interactive agents and user-built agents on July 10.

Hardware collaborations are a key focus: ByteDance is partnering with ZTE Nubia to release multiple AI phone models this year. Nubia has completed its intelligent agent large model filing and confirmed its global-first AI agent phone will include the Doubao mobile assistant, with a partial horizontal lens design revealed.

Device integrations are expanding: Huawei earphones now fully support Doubao, allowing HarmonyOS phone users to access both Xiaoyi and Doubao agents simultaneously. Doubao App added navigation (walking/cycling) and ride-hailing services (powered by Cao Cao Chuxing).

Service expansions include a professional version (starting at 68 yuan monthly) and upcoming paid cloud storage. Volcano Engine’s Tan Dai clarified Doubao will remain free, while the professional version uses the 2.1 Pro model for office tasks.

Rumors were addressed: Byte denied testing social features in Doubao; PR负责人 Liu Xing refuted a fake AI-generated 'top 10 star index list' and hundreds of same-IP accounts pretending to be students to promote another AI product.

Strategically, ByteDance upgraded its To B strategy by adjusting Doubao, Feishu, and Volcano Engine teams to focus on AI enterprise services. Rumors also suggest tens of thousands of new Doubao phones are in stock, with AI no longer directly operating top apps.

Sources

• IT Home (https://m.ithome.com/tag/doubao)
• QuestMobile June 202X Domestic AI Native App Monthly Active Users Report