Understanding the Difference Between “+Internet” and “Internet+”

The internet is widely understood, but adding a "+" before or after it changes its meaning; a detailed explanation is needed to clarify the distinction between "+Internet" and "Internet+".

Simply put, a "+" on the left of "Internet" represents a new profit model built on existing premises, whereas a "+" on the right indicates a new operational model based on the internet. The "Internet+" concept was introduced by our country's premier and is widely discussed across many industries.

+Internet

My simple understanding is that "+Internet" is a profit model where traditional industries combine with the internet, such as manufacturing or companies selling physical products that explore using the internet for promotion or direct online sales.

Internet+

"Internet+" is a popular term that differs from "+Internet" by being an internet‑centric operational model. With the internet evolving into an information‑material‑energy‑interconnected IoT, it leverages mobile internet, cloud computing, big data, and IoT to boost e‑commerce, industrial IoT, and internet finance, guiding enterprises to expand internationally.

Examples include combining the internet with KTV to create Changba, internet + wholesale/retail = Taobao, Tmall, JD.com; internet + communication = Tencent QQ; internet + TV = Netflix, LeTV; internet + food = Dianping, Meituan; internet + banking = online banking.

In essence, both are integrations of internet and non‑internet industries; "+Internet" is driven by the non‑internet side, while "Internet+" is driven by the internet side. Regardless, the internet is merely a tool, and focusing on user needs leads to healthy market development.

END

If you are reading this, it means you like the article; please share, like, and star this public account to receive future posts promptly.

I know you are watching