iQIYI shifts to decentralized ai content model

Engineering a decentralized creative workflow

iQIYI has initiated a systemic transition in how digital entertainment is architected and distributed. During the iQIYI World Conference 2026 - the company's flagship annual summit held in Beijing on April 20-21 - iQIYI detailed its shift from traditional, centralized production toward a decentralized, social-media-like content model. This structural change is supported by the commercial launch of Nadou Pro, a full-stack AI production platform designed to consolidate nearly 70 generative AI agents into a single, cohesive technical environment for creators.

From a technical perspective, the decentralized model functions by empowering smaller creative units with industrial-scale capabilities. By integrating advanced AI agents alongside iQIYI's proprietary IP library, talent network, and shared digital asset library - including scenes, props, and virtual characters - the platform allows independent creators and smaller teams to execute complex production workflows that previously required large-scale studio infrastructure. This shift is not merely about automation but about the redistribution of technical capabilities across the production ecosystem.

Technical specifications of the Nadou Pro platform

The Nadou Pro platform operates as a full-stack solution, managing data flows from the initial conceptual phase through to final rendering. The system integrates nearly 70 specialized AI agents covering scriptwriting, directing, visual design, editing, and more. By combining leading foundation models with iQIYI's proprietary resources and algorithms that embed professional cinematic production methods, Nadou Pro provides contextually accurate support across the entire workflow.

In the visual domain, the platform addresses key challenges such as consistent character designs and scene environments across multiple frames. This is achieved through integrated AI capabilities that ensure visual assets maintain their integrity throughout a project's timeline. iQIYI has reported improved efficiency in content development through this platform.

Integration and ecosystem expansion

Beyond internal tools, iQIYI is opening the Nadou Pro ecosystem to empower AIGC creators with industrial-scale capabilities and resources. The platform integrates multiple AI models and supports upgraded platform services and optimized revenue-sharing, allowing creators to scale production as new advancements emerge. Revenue returns are tied to actual project performance with no upper limit, with additional incentives including a 20% subsidy for AI-generated mid-form series through year-end 2026.

By implementing these decentralized systems, iQIYI aims to optimize its content supply chain. The reduction in operational barriers for individual projects allows for a higher volume of diverse content without a linear increase in costs. This engineering-led strategy positions the streaming platform as a technical facilitator and distributor, enabling broader participation in high-quality production.