The evolution path of internet communication tools is quite intriguing. In the early days, a leading manufacturer adopted a rather aggressive ban strategy towards its third-party ecosystem for its instant messaging platform—controlling both the client and various extension features with a strong desire for dominance. The controversies and conflicts during that period gradually faded away in the wave of mobile internet, and a new application ecosystem completely reshaped the competitive landscape.

Interestingly, the current variables have re-emerged. AI's demand for personal data is changing the value dimension of communication tools. In the past, the moat of communication software was user scale and network effects; now, it also includes the depth of data assets. This shift will give rise to a new generation of communication products—ones that not only meet the basic needs of instant messaging but also adapt to the new requirements of data mobility and privacy balance in the AI era.

From this perspective, industry leaders from the past should have already sensed this undercurrent. As an entry point for personal data, the strategic position of communication tools is being redefined. New entrants may not compete with old tactics but instead approach from the angles of AI and data processing, which could cause a more intense impact on the existing pattern than the previous internet iteration.