The launch of DeepSeek, an open-source AI model, has significantly lowered the barriers to AI development. This breakthrough is reshaping how AI integrates into daily life and the labor market. As China’s annual Two Sessions begin, CGTN’s SCI-Tech Section explores these changes in its series, “DeepSeek Inspires the ‘Deep Seek’ for Humanity.” Authored by Li Mingling, an assistant researcher at South China University of Technology, the series examines how AI can promote fairness, justice, and human welfare without diminishing human value.
DeepSeek: Bringing AI to the Masses
DeepSeek’s high performance at a low cost has sparked widespread discussions. Unlike previous AI models, which were limited to tech enthusiasts and highly educated individuals, this advanced AI technology has reached a broader audience. In ChatGPT vs DeepSeek: Shanghai-Based Users Test Out AI Chatbots in Showdown, users in China has been actively comparing the accessibility and effectiveness of this advanced AI platform against established AI chatbots.
This shift is significant. This innovation has not only raised awareness but also made AI more accessible and affordable. It’s transforming AI into a public resource that transcends class, education, and national boundaries.
The Digital Divide and AI Equality
Before this advanced AI platform, a clear digital divide existed. Access to AI was uneven, with structural gaps between different groups. This innovation has narrowed the gap by engaging more developers and making AI tools affordable for everyone.
This democratization of AI is a game-changer. It ensures that more people can benefit from AI, not just a select few. As highlighted in Top 10 AI News Everyone is Talking About: Spotlight on DeepSeek, its impact on AI accessibility has been a major talking point in the industry.
Open-Source: A New Era of AI Development
DeepSeek’s open-source approach is revolutionary. By releasing its source code, this advanced AI platform has transformed AI development from being controlled by a few companies to a collaborative effort involving developers worldwide.
On December 26, 2024, DeepSeek launched its V3 Model and released a 53-page technical report. This made it the world’s first fully open-source Model of Mixed Expertise (MoE). Later, on January 20, 2025, DeepSeek launched the R1 Model and shared its source code on Hugging Face, an open-source community platform. For a deeper dive into the evolution of AI models, The Evolution of AI: From Transformers to DeepSeek R1 provides valuable insights.
This openness contrasts with the closed-source models of companies like OpenAI and Google. This advanced approach allows users to run the model locally and modify it for specific needs. This empowers grassroots developers to contribute to AI innovation.
Affordable AI for Everyone
DeepSeek has also made AI more affordable. Its R1 Model API service is priced 30 times lower than ChatGPT-o1. Ordinary users can access advanced features without expensive memberships.
This low-cost strategy has disrupted traditional profit models. It has forced other tech companies, like OpenAI and Baidu, to adopt similar open-source and low-pricing strategies. Industry leaders have been closely monitoring this trend, as discussed in Nvidia Stays Confident Amid DeepSeek’s Rise in AI Race, which explores how major AI players are responding to this shift.
The Future of AI Democratization
DeepSeek’s success marks a turning point in AI development. Algorithmic advancements, computing efficiency, and open-source initiatives are making AI accessible to the general public.
As Jeffrey Ding, Assistant Professor at George Washington University, notes in his book Technology and the Rise of Great Powers, the key to progress lies in the effective adoption and diffusion of technology. However, some experts have raised concerns about potential risks, as outlined in Don’t ‘Deep Sleep’ or DeepSeek Will ‘Deep Shock’ Us, Warns Dr Wee, which examines AI’s disruptive potential.
Conclusion
DeepSeek is more than a technological breakthrough. It’s a movement toward democratizing AI. By lowering costs, embracing open-source, and engaging a global community of developers, Advanced AI technology is ensuring that innovation benefits everyone.
As AI continues to evolve, this approach sets a new standard. It shows that true progress belongs to those who make technology accessible and inclusive. The future of AI is here, and it’s for everyone.
