Tencent Launches AI Search as 马化腾 Calls for Faster Change

Tencent introduced 元宝搜索, an AI search service, on Nov. 11 as 马化腾 urged faster organizational change at the company’s 28th anniversary meeting amid concern that artificial intelligence could unsettle established businesses.

Built on large models, 元宝搜索 reshapes the search process and incorporates material from Tencent’s public accounts and video channels. The launch extends Tencent’s AI work into search as the company adapts its established businesses to changing technology.

To illustrate how Tencent could shift resources, 马化腾 described a model in which AI would let half a team handle tasks that previously required the whole group. The other half could then explore AI-native businesses and new areas for growth, while the company continued supporting core businesses such as games and social media.

He called for a flatter organization and quicker changes to employees’ skills and roles. He said the current effort aimed to change how teams work and move faster with existing staff, distinguishing it from earlier cost and efficiency efforts. He also pressed managers to reduce prolonged persuasion and negotiation around new assignments, including cases in which employees sought management roles before joining new work.

The search shift comes as AI challenges established internet businesses. Google’s search advertising revenue grew 12% in the third quarter, down from 17% in the second quarter and 19% in the first. Google management has cited weaker monetization of AI Mode as one factor weighing on growth. As AI-driven searches increase, each search may also bring in less revenue than a traditional query.

Posts on 脉脉 and 小红书 claimed Tencent would cut half its workforce. Tencent public relations director 张军 said the 50% staffing figure was an example of organizational change, not a layoff target. Tencent had not announced a plan to eliminate half its employees.