The Tech Strategy Podcast Lessons from My Visits to Xiaomi, Unitree and iQIYI (267)
Nov 19, 2025
Discover insights from a journey through innovative companies like Xiaomi, Unitree, and iQiyi. Explore how iQiyi is reshaping Chinese streaming with a focus on premium content and generative AI tools. Learn about Unitree's agile robots, including humanoids mastering Kung Fu moves. Delve into Xiaomi's ecosystem strategy, balancing products for people, homes, and vehicles, while maintaining customer excitement. Witness the dynamic interplay between technology and consumer expectations through this fascinating exploration.
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AI Strategy Is Infrastructure-Driven
- AI strategy differs from digital strategy because its cost structures and infrastructure needs are fundamentally different.
- Understanding AI infrastructure (compute, data centers, storage) determines what AI can and cannot do in business.
Agents Will Reshape E‑Commerce
- AI agents will change e-commerce by performing searches and purchases on behalf of users.
- Merchants risk being intermediated if they do not adapt to agent-driven discovery and commerce.
iQiyi's Shift To Premium In‑House Content
- Jeff Towson described visiting iQiyi and its evolution into an HBO‑style producer with heavy spending on in‑house content.
- He highlighted iQiyi's long struggle to monetize digital video and its pivot to proprietary dramas.
