China's DeepSeek is revolutionizing global AI with high-performance, open-source, low-cost models. Find out how it rivals OpenAI and is shaking up the market.
In the ever-changing world of artificial intelligence, a new star is shining brightly: DeepSeek, Chinese artificial intelligence. Founded in 2023 by Chinese entrepreneur Liang Wenfeng, this startup has quickly risen through the ranks to compete with giants like OpenAI and Meta. But what makes DeepSeek so special? Here’s everything you need to know about this technology that’s changing the AI landscape.
A meteoric rise in the field of AI
In less than two years, DeepSeek, Chinese artificial intelligence, has achieved impressive performances. With its R1 and V3 models, it has climbed into the top 10 of international rankings, notably on Chatbot Arena, a renowned platform hosted by the University of California, Berkeley. These models are particularly recognized for their ability to solve complex tasks in mathematics, general knowledge, and question-answering.
But what really sets DeepSeek apart is its exceptional efficiency. While training similar models for its competitors often costs between $100 million and $1 billion, DeepSeek claims to have developed its models for just $5.6 million. A saving that leaves the whole world skeptical and admiring.
Why DeepSeek Makes Tech Giants Tremble?
The success of DeepSeek, Chinese artificial intelligence, has not gone unnoticed. In January 2025, its app became the most downloaded iPhone app in countries including the US, UK, Australia and China, with a total of 1.6 million downloads. This massive adoption immediately sent shockwaves through global technology markets. Shares of major companies like Nvidia, Microsoft and Broadcom fell significantly, highlighting the perceived threat posed by DeepSeek.
One of DeepSeek's major strengths lies in its open source model. Unlike solutions that are often locked in by proprietary licenses, DeepSeek provides the ability for anyone to access, modify and share their models, thus paving the way for collaborative innovations.
Revolutionary technology at a lower cost
DeepSeek claims to have developed its models without using the most advanced AI chips, which are often banned from export to China due to US restrictions. This statement, while controversial, has sparked debate about how the startup managed to achieve such high performance at such low cost. Experts like Alexandr Wang, CEO of Scale AI, believe that DeepSeek may have secretly used banned Nvidia chips to circumvent these restrictions.
Despite these doubts, DeepSeek remains a striking example of Chinese technological ingenuity. Its cost-cutting approach could well redefine how AI models are developed globally.
A Threat to America's AI Leaders?
In the context of the growing technological rivalry between China and the United States, DeepSeek, Chinese artificial intelligence, represents a direct challenge to American companies like OpenAI, Meta, and Google. By backing projects like the $500 billion Stargate plan, the United States is trying to maintain its dominance in the AI field. However, DeepSeek proves that China is ready to compete, not only in terms of performance, but also in terms of cost and accessibility.
The Future of DeepSeek
As DeepSeek continues to gain popularity and recognition, one question remains: will this technology be able to maintain its position against more established and better-funded giants? The coming months will be crucial to observe how DeepSeek, Chinese artificial intelligence, will influence the global AI landscape.
The economic and technological fallout from this rise is already visible, but it is likely only just beginning. If DeepSeek delivers on its promise, it could well redefine the rules of the game and usher in a new era for artificial intelligence.
Our opinion
DeepSeek, Chinese artificial intelligence, is more than just a tech startup. It is a symbol of China’s rise in AI and a direct challenge to established global leaders. With its innovative approach, powerful models and low cost, it is establishing itself as a key player to watch in the years to come.
Share your thoughts in the comments: Do you think DeepSeek can really dethrone OpenAI?