DeepSeek is a new AI chatbot from China, developed by billionaire Liang Wenfun, that has quickly gained popularity, becoming the most downloaded app in Apple’s US App Store. While it operates similarly to other AI chatbots, it adheres to strict Chinese regulations, limiting its responses on sensitive topics, which raises questions about censorship and the future of AI technology.
DeepSeek is a new AI chatbot developed in China, positioned as the country’s answer to popular platforms like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini. Founded by billionaire Liang Wenfun just a year and a half ago, DeepSeek has quickly gained traction, becoming the most downloaded app in Apple’s US App Store shortly after its recent launch. This rapid rise highlights the growing influence of AI technology in the global market and the competitive landscape between Western and Chinese tech companies.
The developers of DeepSeek claim that the chatbot was created at a significantly lower cost and with less computing power compared to its competitors. This efficiency could give it an edge in terms of accessibility and scalability, potentially attracting a wide range of users who are looking for AI solutions without the hefty price tag associated with other platforms. The app’s success has drawn attention from various sectors, including notable figures like former President Donald Trump, who referred to it as a “wake-up call” for industries in the United States.
Functionally, DeepSeek operates similarly to other AI chatbots, providing users with comprehensive answers to their inquiries. However, it is designed to avoid expressing opinions, maintaining a neutral stance on various topics. This characteristic aligns with the regulatory environment in China, where content is heavily monitored and controlled. As a result, DeepSeek’s responses can be limited, particularly when it comes to sensitive subjects that are banned in the country.
For instance, when users inquire about politically sensitive events like the Tiananmen Square protests, DeepSeek is programmed to respond with a refusal to answer, often redirecting the conversation to less controversial topics. This limitation underscores the challenges faced by AI developers in China, where adherence to government regulations can restrict the breadth of information that can be shared. Users may find this frustrating, as it contrasts with the more open nature of other AI platforms.
Despite these restrictions, many users report that DeepSeek feels similar to other AI chatbots in terms of functionality and user experience. The app’s ability to engage in conversation and provide information on a wide range of topics makes it appealing, even if it lacks the same level of openness as its Western counterparts. As DeepSeek continues to grow in popularity, it raises important questions about the future of AI technology, censorship, and the balance between innovation and regulatory compliance in different parts of the world.