Chinese tech startup DeepSeek’s newly launched AI chatbot is generating buzz, highlighting the intensifying competition between China and the U.S. in artificial intelligence development. Since its release, the chatbot has climbed to the top of Apple’s iPhone app store as the most downloaded free app, prompting speculation about its potential to rival American counterparts, including OpenAI’s ChatGPT.
DeepSeek’s chatbot has attracted attention for its apparent ability to challenge major players in the AI field at a fraction of the cost. However, its responses, particularly on sensitive topics related to China, suggest a degree of censorship, a common feature on Chinese internet platforms. The chatbot avoids direct answers on politically charged issues, adhering to content regulations implemented in 2023. These rules require security reviews and government approval before AI products are released publicly.
A comparison of the chatbot with ChatGPT reveals significant differences in how they address certain sensitive topics:
Censorship on Chinese Issues
When asked about the meaning of Winnie the Pooh in China, ChatGPT correctly described the bear as a symbol of political satire, often used to mock President Xi Jinping due to perceived physical similarities. DeepSeek’s response, in contrast, portrayed the character as a beloved icon symbolizing joy and friendship, before shifting to emphasize the government’s efforts to maintain “wholesome cyberspace” under Chinese laws and values.
Similarly, on the topic of the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown, DeepSeek declined to comment, suggesting a topic change. ChatGPT provided a detailed account of the event, labeling it as a tragic moment in Chinese history and highlighting its legacy as a taboo subject in mainland China.
Accuracy and Transparency
Both chatbots faltered on simple factual queries, such as the identity of the U.S. president, mistakenly naming Joe Biden, whose term ended the previous week. They attributed this to outdated datasets, last updated in October 2023. Both urged users to verify information with current sources.
Divergent Takes on Taiwan and U.S.-China Relations
On Taiwan’s status, DeepSeek adhered to official Chinese narratives, calling it an “integral part of China since ancient times.” Its response mirrored government-issued statements, emphasizing shared cultural ties across the Taiwan Strait. ChatGPT presented a more nuanced explanation, outlining the conflicting perspectives of China, Taiwan, and the international community, noting Taiwan’s status as a de facto independent entity with its own government and economy.
Regarding U.S.-China relations, DeepSeek echoed diplomatic language used by Chinese officials, calling for “mutual respect” and “win-win cooperation.” In contrast, ChatGPT described the relationship as a mix of economic interdependence and geopolitical rivalry, highlighting key areas of tension such as Taiwan, the South China Sea, and technological competition.
Observers are now closely watching how DeepSeek’s chatbot may influence global AI trends and its role in China’s broader ambitions to compete with U.S.-dominated AI technologies. The chatbot’s performance, while impressive in some respects, raises questions about balancing innovation with state-imposed restrictions.
