A few days ago, news broke that Xiaomi had permanently blacklisted two air conditioner installers, sparking widespread discussion online.

The controversy stems from Xiaomi's requirement for at least 15 minutes of vacuum pumping during air conditioner installation. To ensure compliance, Xiaomi developed a specialized software that connects a mobile phone with a vacuum pump. This system monitors the extraction time and pressure values in real-time, uploading the data to the cloud for instant accessibility (meaning the data can be checked anytime).

If an installer fails to meet the specified time or vacuum requirements, they cannot complete the work order.

The two installers in question were caught red-handed by Xiaomi for cheating during the vacuum pumping process.

The incident triggered a backlash online, with many installers criticizing Xiaomi. Some misguided consumers also joined the fray, claiming that the product was inferior and that even prolonged vacuum pumping wouldn't make a difference. They argued that if the product were truly good, 15 minutes wouldn't be necessary, accusing Xiaomi of mere marketing hype.

However, some consumers recognized Xiaomi's efforts to rectify the industry, noting that the 15-minute vacuum pumping requirement is a national standard often ignored by installers in practice. They hoped other brands would follow Xiaomi's lead and regulate the installation market.

It's worth noting that the public can see the value in Xiaomi's approach. By using a system to supervise installations, Xiaomi makes the process transparent and standardized under supervision (meaning the process is monitored and regulated), rather than relying on subjective judgment or the installer's conscience.

Data indicates that since Xiaomi penalized the two installers, its online sales have surged significantly both year-over-year and month-over-month, reflecting increased consumer trust.

Under these circumstances, other air conditioner manufacturers can no longer remain passive. Sources reveal that major players like Midea, Gree, and Haier now strictly require installers to perform at least 15 minutes of vacuum pumping during installations.

Moreover, industry insiders suggest that other manufacturers may also be developing similar software to digitally supervise the entire installation process, preventing technicians from relying solely on experience or conscience.

They understand that failing to keep pace with Xiaomi could result in being abandoned by consumers. After all, the 15-minute vacuum pumping standard has been in place for some time, and manufacturers have long had requirements for installers. However, they lacked effective supervision methods until Xiaomi took the initiative.

Many consumers are correct in their assessment. Sometimes, rectifying the market truly depends on internet giants like Xiaomi, which possess strong R&D capabilities, internet-driven thinking, and a user-centric approach. They know how to satisfy users and enhance the user experience, devising a series of effective solutions.

Traditional home appliance companies are not technologically inferior, but their thinking tends to be more rigid. When it comes to user satisfaction and experience improvement, they lack the innovative ideas and methods of internet companies like Xiaomi. This, I believe, is why so many young people favor Xiaomi.