Taobao

Reports indicate that Cai Jingxian (“Duolong”), a highly respected Alibaba engineer and known as the “Code God,” has left the company. Cai, Taobao’s first programmer who joined Alibaba in 2000, was a core engineer responsible for building Taobao’s core transaction and forum systems. He became an Alibaba partner in 2014, recognized for his significant contributions to Taobao. Alibaba’s 2023 report confirms Cai is no longer a partner, fueling speculation about his departure and its potential impact on Alibaba’s technology leadership.

A LatePost report reveals an intense battle between Meituan and Taobao in China’s on-demand delivery sector, focusing on “lightning warehouses.” These online-only convenience stores offer rapid delivery of essential goods. The platforms are fiercely competing for key merchants, employing tactics such as pressuring them to adjust prices or limit rival platform operations. Merchants express concerns about platform dominance and data control, navigating the pressures of this competitive landscape. The future of this rivalry and merchants’ roles remain uncertain.

Taobao Instant Delivery and Meituan engaged in an intense delivery war, offering deep discounts and subsidies. This aggressive competition led to a surge in orders for both platforms, benefiting merchants and delivery personnel. While stock prices saw initial dips, the overall impact suggests a dynamic market where new entrants can challenge established players. The rivalry highlights strategic differences, with Meituan focusing on food delivery and Taobao aiming for broader integration of online shopping and instant retail.

Romoss denies bankruptcy rumors amidst a large-scale power bank recall. Employees at their Shenzhen headquarters report normal operations with no layoffs. The company states refunds for recalled products are being processed within 15-30 days after verification. However, reports indicate delays on Taobao due to insufficient seller deposits.

Taobao Tmall launched its “Authentic Experience Score” system, moving beyond user ratings to objectively assess sellers on product quality, logistics, and service. Integrated into search, recommendations, and marketing, this score empowers consumers and rewards merchants with high performance. The system utilizes metrics like return rates, delivery times, and response times. This initiative aims to foster a more trustworthy e-commerce ecosystem by incentivizing genuine quality and service.

Apple announced the 2025 Apple Design Award winners, recognizing 12 global teams. Significant this year was Taobao, a Chinese platform, winning an “Interaction” award for its Apple Vision Pro app, marking a first for Chinese internet platforms. Other winners included CapWords and Infinity Nikki. The awards highlight innovative app design across categories like Interaction and Visuals, serving as a major industry honor.

Taobao’s desktop app (V1.3.0) introduces “Multi-Product Comparison” and “Discover Great Items” to enhance the shopping experience. The comparison tool enables side-by-side product analysis with AI-powered insights. “Discover Great Items” offers curated, AI-driven content based on emerging trends. Rapidly updated with four versions in a month, the desktop platform aims to provide faster access and richer engagement, integrating seamlessly with Windows and MacOS.