A proponent of DeepSeek AI chatbot Dr. Victor Gao has accused the U.S. of trying to monopolize AI, adding that the technology belongs to all of humanity.
In an interview on 30 January, Dr. Gao who’s also the Vice President of the Center for China and Globalization, stated that the development and advancement of AI should be a global effort, benefiting everyone, and should not be monopolized by one country.
A global shift in AI power dynamics
This bold stance comes when AI technology has become central to international competitiveness and technological leadership.
The United States, has long been at the forefront of AI innovation. However, DeepSeek’s entry into the field, armed with groundbreaking AI technology, challenges this dominance directly.
DeepSeek’s AI model has already outperformed expectations, earning widespread attention for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness, and its rise signals that the AI landscape is no longer entirely controlled by the U.S.
Unlike major U.S. companies like OpenAI, DeepSeek has shown that world-class AI can be developed without enormous financial backing, showcasing the feasibility of innovation with limited resources.
The startup’s model was developed with $6 million, challenging the notion that sophisticated AI requires massive investment.
This offers a more accessible and environmentally friendly alternative, particularly in the face of growing concerns over AI’s environmental impact.
This rapid development has triggered a reevaluation of the global landscape of AI innovation, with many now questioning whether the U.S. should retain its position of technological superiority.
China aims for self-reliance
The U.S.’s ban on Chinese access to high-end computer chips and AI tools has spurred significant national and grassroots efforts to develop homegrown AI technology.
Thus, DeepSeek’s emergence highlights China’s strategic efforts and shift towards self-reliance in AI and technology.
Its cost-effective development gives hope to smaller economies globally to explore the AI space even with limited resources.