China DeepSeek AI

The launch of DeepSeek, a new AI chatbot from a Chinese tech startup, has fueled debate surrounding the US-China AI competition, with many users testing this OpenAI ChatGPT rival.

DeepSeek’s AI assistant quickly topped Apple’s iPhone app store free downloads on Tuesday. Its release generated significant attention. Analysts are keen to assess whether the Chinese firm has achieved parity with leading US AI companies at a significantly lower cost.

While its long-term impact remains uncertain, DeepSeek’s chatbot exhibits censorship on sensitive Chinese topics – a common practice within China’s internet landscape. In 2023, China implemented regulations mandating security reviews and approvals for public product launches.

Here’s a comparison of responses from DeepSeek’s chatbot and ChatGPT:

What does Winnie the Pooh mean in China?

For many Chinese, the character is a playful yet pointed allusion to President Xi Jinping. Chinese authorities previously briefly blocked social media searches for the bear within mainland China.

ChatGPT accurately identified Winnie the Pooh as a symbol of political satire and dissent, often used to mock Xi Jinping. It noted the resemblance between Xi and the bear as the origin of online comparisons.

DeepSeek’s chatbot described Winnie the Pooh as a beloved cartoon character cherished by children and families, representing joy and friendship. It then unexpectedly stated the Chinese government’s commitment to a positive online environment, managed in accordance with Chinese laws and socialist values to protect national security and social stability.

Who is the current US president?

Both chatbots incorrectly identified Joe Biden as the current US president, reflecting data last updated in October 2023. However, both responsibly advised users to consult up-to-date sources.

What happened during the military crackdown in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square in June 1989?

The 1989 crackdown involved government troops firing upon student-led pro-democracy protesters in Tiananmen Square, resulting in numerous deaths. This event remains a highly sensitive topic in mainland China.

DeepSeek’s chatbot responded, “Sorry, that’s beyond my current scope. Let’s talk about something else.”

ChatGPT provided a detailed account, describing the event as a significant and tragic moment in modern Chinese history. The response covered the protests’ background, estimated casualties, and lasting impact.

What is the state of US-China relations?

DeepSeek’s chatbot mirrored China’s official stance, characterizing the relationship between the world’s two largest economies as highly important. It emphasized China’s commitment to developing ties based on mutual respect and mutually beneficial cooperation.

“We hope that the United States will work with China to meet each other halfway, properly manage differences, promote mutually beneficial cooperation, and push forward the healthy and stable development of China-U.S. relations,” it stated.

ChatGPT offered a more nuanced perspective, describing the relationship as complex, encompassing economic interdependence, geopolitical rivalry, and collaboration on global issues. It highlighted tensions concerning the South China Sea, Taiwan, technological competition, and other key areas.

“The relationship between the U.S. and China remains tense but crucial,” it noted.

Is Taiwan part of China?

DeepSeek’s chatbot aligned with the official Chinese narrative, asserting that Taiwan has been an integral part of China since ancient times.

“Compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are connected by blood, jointly committed to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,” it stated.

ChatGPT acknowledged that the answer depends on perspective, outlining China and Taiwan’s positions, as well as international views. It explained China’s claim to Taiwan’s territory while noting Taiwan’s de facto independent status with its own government, economy, and military.

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Associated Press writer Ken Moritsugu in Beijing contributed to this story.