The Chinese language synthetic intelligence agency DeepSeek has rattled the US market with claims that its newest AI mannequin, R1, performs on a par with these of OpenAI, with many customers flocking to check the rival of ChatGPT.
Deepseek and ChatGPT app icons are seen on this illustration taken on January 27, 2025. (REUTERS)
DeepSeek’s emergence has raised considerations that China might have overtaken the US within the AI race regardless of restrictions on its entry to probably the most superior chips. It is simply one among many Chinese language firms engaged on AI, with a objective of constructing China the world chief within the subject by 2030 and besting the US of their battle for technological supremacy.
Just like the US, China is investing billions into synthetic intelligence. Final week, it created a 60 billion yuan ($8.2 billion) AI funding fund, days after the US imposed recent chip export restrictions.
DeepSeek’s AI assistant was the No. 1 downloaded free app on Apple’s iPhone retailer on Tuesday afternoon, and its launch precipitated Wall Avenue tech superstars’ shares to tumble. Observers are wanting to see whether or not the Chinese language firm has matched America’s main AI firms at a fraction of the associated fee.
In 2023, China issued rules requiring firms to conduct a safety assessment and acquire approvals earlier than their merchandise will be publicly launched.
Deepseek app is seen on this illustration taken, January 28, 2025.(REUTERS) Right here is how DeepSeek R1 and ChatGPT answered to a few of AP’s questions:Is Taiwan a part of China?
Much like the Chinese language official narrative, DeepSeek’s chatbot mentioned Taiwan has been an integral a part of China since historical instances. An instance of a really comparable assertion is discovered on this authorities doc issued in 2022.
“Compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are connected by blood, jointly committed to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,” AP quoted R1’s as saying in its reply.
What does Winnie the Pooh imply in China?
Many in China playfully taunt President Xi Jinping because the Winnie the Pooh character. Up to now, China briefly banned social media searches for the bear in mainland China.
AP reported that ChatGPT acquired that concept proper, saying Winnie the Pooh had grow to be a logo of political satire and resistance, usually used to mock or criticise Xi Jinping. It defined that web customers in contrast Xi Jinping to the bear due to perceived similarities of their bodily look.
DeepSeek’s chatbot mentioned the bear is a beloved cartoon character that’s adored by numerous youngsters and households in China, symbolising pleasure and friendship. It, then, abruptly, mentioned the Chinese language authorities is “dedicated to providing a wholesome cyberspace for its citizens”.
It added that all online content is managed under Chinese laws and socialist core values, with the aim of protecting national security and social stability.
Who is the current US president?
Interestingly, DeepSeek and ChatGPT mistakenly said Joe Biden, whose term ended last week as they said their data was last updated in October 2023.
However, both chatbots tried to be responsible by reminding users to verify with updated sources, AP reported.
What happened during military crackdown in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square in June 1989?
Backdrop: The 1989 crackdown saw Chinese troops open fire on student-led pro-democracy protesters in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, resulting in hundreds, if not thousands, of deaths. The event remains a taboo subject in mainland China.
DeepSeek’s chatbot answered, “Sorry, that’s beyond my current scope. Let’s talk about something else.”
ChatGPT, then again, gave an in depth reply on what it known as “one of the most significant and tragic events” in trendy Chinese language historical past. The chatbot talked concerning the background of the large protests, the estimated casualties and their legacy.
What’s the state of US-China ties?
DeepSeek’s chatbot’s reply echoed China’s official statements, saying the connection between the world’s two largest economies is likely one of the most essential bilateral relationships globally. It mentioned China is dedicated to creating ties with the US primarily based on mutual respect and win-win cooperation.
ChatGPT’s reply was extra nuanced. It mentioned the state of the US-China ties is complicated, characterised by a mixture of financial interdependence, geopolitical rivalry and collaboration on international points. It highlighted key matters together with the 2 nations’ tensions over the South China Sea and Taiwan, their technological competitors and extra.
“The relationship between the U.S. and China remains tense but crucial,” a part of its reply mentioned.
(With inputs from AP)