Tencent AI scientist argues product layer, not model sophistication, defines AI moat

At the 2026 Future Science Award, Tsinghua University professor Zhang Yaqin questioned Tencent's Chief AI Scientist, Yao Shunyu, on AI competitive advantage. Yao Shunyu argued the moat lies in the product layer, not model sophistication. He stated the most valuable AI understands user context, leverages proprietary data, and comprehends individual backgrounds, citing WeChat's ability to provide value through knowing a user's schedule and social connections. Separately, Yao Shunyu oversees the Foundation Model Department, formed in July of this year by merging Tencent's Hunyuan multimodal and large language model departments. Additionally, in December 2025, Tencent restructured its large model R&D architecture, creating dedicated AI Infra, AI Data, and Data Computing Platform departments. Yao Shunyu holds dual roles: Chief AI Scientist reporting to Tencent President Liu Chiping, and leader of the AI Infra and Large Language Model departments reporting to Technical Engineering Business Group President Lu Shan.