Chinese tech company NetEase will shut down its public cloud computing service on Apr. 7, citing changes in business strategy.

Corporate clients have been notified and advised to transition to alternative platforms, with refunds available for unused account credits. The service’s website, 163yun.com, now redirects users to Shufan, NetEase’s big data solution business.

NetEase has operated the public cloud service for nearly a decade but faces challenges competing with Alibaba, ByteDance, and state-backed telecom operators.

The rise of AI-driven growth has intensified competition, an area where NetEase is seen as trailing.

Analysts suggest this move reflects the company’s struggle to stay competitive in China’s cloud market.

NetEase did not respond to requests for comment.

Recent NetEase developments