Image generated by AI (Source: DreamAI)

AsianFin -- Chinese 3D generative model startup Deemons announced the completion of a multi-million dollar Series A funding round on Monday. This funding round was led by Meituan and ByteDance, and HongShan Seed Fund and Miracle Plus have continued to follow up with investments.

Deemons will use this funding to advance its cutting-edge research in 3D generative AI models, particularly its flagship product, the Rodin model, which has already been well received by the Chin market.

Within just 45 days of launch, Rodin generated an annual recurring revenue (ARR) of $1 million. The company plans to expand its presence in global markets, positioning its Hyper3D series of products as leaders in 3D model generation.

This strategic move by Meituan and ByteDance underscores the growing importance of 3D generative models, often referred to as the "last piece of the puzzle" in creating comprehensive "world models". 

These models simulate the complexity of the real world, a critical step toward achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI). The competition is heating up, with major companies like NVIDIA, Meta, and Tencent also investing heavily in 3D generative technology, recognizing it as a key element in future AI development.

Meituan, in particular, has been quietly expanding its AI footprint, investing in companies like Zhipu AI and Unitree Robotics. Meanwhile, ByteDance has been scaling its efforts with its Doubao model and investing in AI hardware, purchasing over 230,000 Nvidia GPUs in 2024, becoming Nvidia’s second-largest global buyer after Microsoft.