ByteDance has restricted functions of its AI device, Doubao, amid concerns from major Chinese apps about its interaction capabilities, particularly in financial services and social media. The Nubia M153 smartphone, co-developed with ZTE, allows voice-based operation, appealing to tech enthusiasts. However, platforms like Alipay and WeChat have limited Doubao’s access due to security risks, causing user accounts to lock during AI operations. Despite privacy assurances from ByteDance, concerns linger regarding data handling and the AI’s broad memory capacity. The smartphone, priced at 3,499 yuan (approximately $494), targets industry professionals but faces challenges in China’s regulated digital landscape. While some services, like Meituan and Douyin, remain compatible with Doubao, the overall user experience is hampered by restrictions. Moving forward, ByteDance aims to collaborate with app developers to create guidelines that balance AI functionality and platform security, essential for the future of agentic AI smartphones in China’s competitive market.
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