DeepSeek’s AI chatbot and ChatGPT provide varying responses to sensitive inquiries regarding China.

HONG KONG — The recent introduction of an artificial intelligence chatbot by the Chinese tech startup DeepSeek has ignited conversations regarding the ongoing AI rivalry between China and the United States. A significant number of users have turned to this new alternative, which aims to compete with OpenAI’s renowned ChatGPT.

On Tuesday afternoon, DeepSeek’s AI assistant claimed the title of the most downloaded free app on Apple’s iPhone store, leading to a decline in the stock values of major tech firms on Wall Street. Analysts are curious to determine if this Chinese innovation can rival leading American AI companies, all while maintaining a lower price point.

The eventual influence of the chatbot within the AI landscape remains uncertain, yet it has shown tendencies to avoid sensitive subjects relating to China, a behavior typical of many platforms within the nation. In 2023, the Chinese government established regulations mandating a security review and prior approval for company products before they can be made available to the public.

In comparing the responses from DeepSeek’s chatbot and ChatGPT, the two presented differing interpretations on various topics. In addressing the cultural significance of Winnie the Pooh in China, the character has been utilized as a form of satire directed at President Xi Jinping, leading to temporary bans on searches for the bear in the country. ChatGPT recognized this connection as a symbol of political commentary and dissent, while DeepSeek portrayed Winnie the Pooh as a cherished character representing joy and togetherness, before shifting the focus to the government’s commitment to ensure a positive online space for its citizens.

When queried about the sitting U.S. president, both chatbots erroneously identified Joe Biden, attributing the mistake to outdated training data. Nevertheless, they encouraged users to confirm information using the most current sources available.

The 1989 military crackdown in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, which resulted in numerous casualties amidst pro-democracy protests, remains a sensitive and censored topic in China. While ChatGPT provided a thorough account of this pivotal historical event, DeepSeek’s chatbot declined to engage on the matter, redirecting the conversation instead.

In discussing the fraught U.S.-China relationship, DeepSeek’s chatbot echoed official Chinese rhetoric, emphasizing the importance of respectful dialogue and constructive cooperation. Phrases like “mutual respect” and “win-win cooperation” closely resemble statements made by Chinese officials in previous press engagements. Conversely, ChatGPT depicted the relationship as multifaceted, shaped by intertwining economic ties and geopolitical tensions, touching upon significant issues like the South China Sea and Taiwan.

When answering the question about Taiwan’s status, DeepSeek aligned with the Chinese government’s narrative, stating that Taiwan has traditionally been a part of China. This language mirrors previous official documentation. In contrast, ChatGPT presented a more balanced perspective, highlighting that while China considers Taiwan a territory of its own, Taiwan operates as a self-governing entity with its own distinct systems.

The discourse surrounding these AI chatbots reveals not only the technological advancements being pursued but also the deeper political and cultural narratives that continue to shape interactions within and outside of China. As users navigate through various interpretations provided by these chatbots, the implications of such AI innovations on global dialogue remain significant.