ECARX Acquires Flyme Software Business to Advance Intelligent Cockpit Platform

ECARX has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Flyme software business for CNY 1.8 billion (approximately USD 266 million), reinforcing its long-term strategy to strengthen intelligent cockpit software capabilities. The acquisition includes the Flyme Auto intelligent cockpit operating system together with the cross-device Flyme operating system. The transaction will be completed through the purchase of Hubei Qiguang Technology Co Ltd, a business that has been separated from DreamSmart Group, the parent company of Meizu. This move is expected to enhance ECARX's software portfolio while supporting continued innovation in connected vehicle technologies.

Acquisition Expands Intelligent Cockpit Software Portfolio

Under the finalized agreement, ECARX will integrate the Flyme software business into its operations by creating a dedicated independent software business division. This newly established unit will oversee the continued development and commercialization of the Flyme product portfolio while ensuring dedicated management and technical resources. The acquisition covers both the automotive-focused Flyme Auto platform and the broader cross-device Flyme operating system, enabling ECARX to further strengthen its position in software-defined vehicle technologies and connected digital ecosystems.

Additional Investment to Support Growth

Following the completion of the transaction, ECARX plans to invest an additional CNY 200 million into Hubei Qiguang Technology as operational funding. The company stated that this investment will provide stable financial support for ongoing research and development activities while also enabling future business expansion for the Flyme engineering team. By strengthening operational resources, ECARX aims to maintain continuous software innovation and support future product evolution across its operating system portfolio.

User Data Management and Future Software Development

Although ownership of the Flyme software business will transfer to ECARX, all existing user data will remain under Meizu's ownership. Meizu will continue handling the operation and maintenance of user-related information after the acquisition closes. Meanwhile, ECARX will remain responsible for advancing iterative upgrades across the complete Flyme software ecosystem, including continued enhancements to both automotive and cross-device operating systems while preserving existing service continuity for users.

AI Development and 2026 Product Roadmap

ECARX confirmed that future software development efforts will prioritize the AI Agent version of the Flyme platform. The company intends to accelerate artificial intelligence capabilities as part of its next-generation operating system strategy. During 2026, Meizu smartphone users are expected to receive a large-scale system update, while the completely redesigned Flyme Auto 3.0 in-vehicle operating system is scheduled for its official launch, expanding intelligent cockpit functionality and delivering new software experiences across supported devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the ECARX acquisition include?
The acquisition includes both the Flyme Auto intelligent cockpit operating system and the cross-device Flyme operating system through the purchase of Hubei Qiguang Technology. The agreement is valued at CNY 1.8 billion and is intended to strengthen ECARX's software portfolio for connected vehicles. Alongside the acquisition, ECARX will establish a dedicated software division to oversee Flyme development while continuing long-term investment in software innovation and future product expansion.

Who will manage existing Flyme user data after the acquisition?
Existing Flyme user data will continue to be owned, operated, and maintained by Meizu even after the acquisition is completed. While ECARX will lead future software development and platform enhancements, responsibility for user information remains with Meizu. This arrangement allows software innovation to continue without changing ownership of user data, ensuring continuity for existing customers while supporting ongoing improvements across the Flyme operating system ecosystem.

What software updates are planned following the transaction?
ECARX plans to continue upgrading the entire Flyme operating system portfolio with a strong emphasis on developing AI Agent capabilities. During 2026, Meizu smartphone users are expected to receive a major system upgrade, while the new Flyme Auto 3.0 in-vehicle operating system will be officially introduced. These planned releases are intended to expand intelligent cockpit functionality and deliver enhanced connected software experiences across compatible devices and vehicles.