Introduction
Meizu, founded in 2003 and headquartered in Zhuhai, China, is a design-centric consumer electronics maker led by Su Jing. With around 1,000 employees and 2024 revenue near USD 750 million, Meizu focuses on user-friendly smartphones and immersive hardware. Despite modest scale, it remains relevant through innovation, including AI and EV direction under Geely’s ownership.
History & Milestone
Began with MP3/MP4 media players, transitioned to smartphones with the Meizu M8 in 2007 and M9 (Android) in 2011 .
Expanded internationally in 2012 with the Flyme OS-equipped MX and MX2, and led early innovation with the MX3’s 128 GB option in 2013 .
Raised USD 590 million from Alibaba in 2015 .
Acquired by Geely in 2022; transitioned toward AI and smart automotive products in 2024/2025 .
Product & Services
Smartphones: Flyme OS-powered devices and MP3/MP4 players.
AI & Smart Vehicles: Now exploring infotainment and intelligent systems for vehicles following strategic shift under Geely
Business Model & Strategy
Revenue largely from smartphone sales in select markets. Shifting focus under Geely to broader “total AI” ecosystem and smart vehicle platforms—a strategic pivot aiming for sustained relevance .
Market Presence & Financials
Strong brand recognition in China and select overseas markets (e.g., Russia, Southeast Asia). Financially moderate scale but poised for transformation with parent company support
Leadership & Culture
Known for design-driven ethos under founder Huang Zhang. Culture emphasizes user experience and hardware-software integration via Flyme OS, now evolving toward AI-led innovation with Su Jing’s leadership .
Controversies & Challenges
Struggled with distribution and market share under 1% in China by 2019 . Strategic upheavals and market realignment pose execution risks during transformation phase.
Future Outlook
Meizu looks forward to reorienting into intelligent hardware under Geely, especially in AI and smart vehicle systems—while the Meizu 21 Pro (early 2024) is its last smartphone under old model lines .