In a major shake-up in the global AI landscape, Chinese AI startup Deep Seek AI has reportedly overtaken ChatGPT to become the top-rated free app on Apple’s App Store in the US as of Monday, January 27, 2025. This milestone comes just over two weeks after its release, signaling a breakthrough in China’s artificial intelligence sector.
A Rapid Rise to Fame
Founded in 2023 in the eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou—known as a hub for tech innovation—DeepSeek is one of many AI-focused startups emerging from China. However, it has rapidly distinguished itself by achieving recognition in the US market for rivaling, and in some cases surpassing, the performance of established US-based AI models like ChatGPT.
As per app data research firm Sensor Tower, DeepSeek’s AI assistant, powered by its proprietary DeepSeek-V3 model, has gained significant traction since its launch on January 10, 2025. Its rapid adoption highlights the model’s advanced capabilities and its appeal to a global audience.
DeepSeek-V3: Technology at the Core
Key Features of DeepSeek-V3
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model Type | Proprietary AI model for data search |
| Training Chips | Nvidia H800 |
| Training Cost | Under $6 million |
| Performance | Rivals advanced closed-source models |
DeepSeek-V3 is designed to outperform many open-source models and even challenge some of the most advanced closed-source AI systems globally. The use of Nvidia’s H800 chips, which are reportedly less advanced than those targeted by US export bans, underscores China’s ability to innovate despite geopolitical restrictions.
Why DeepSeek is a Game-Changer
Comparative Analysis Table
| Feature/Metric | DeepSeek AI | ChatGPT |
| Global Recognition | Top free app on Apple’s US App Store | Widely used but faces new challenges |
| Core Technology | DeepSeek-V3 | GPT-4 |
| Training Infrastructure | Nvidia H800 chips | High-end Nvidia GPUs |
| Training Cost | <$6 million | Estimated $12-15 million |
| Affordability | Cheaper premium plans | Relatively high costs |
DeepSeek’s ability to achieve remarkable results at lower costs highlights its efficiency and innovation. Moreover, its pricing model—offering flexible and cheaper premium plans—makes advanced AI tools more accessible to a broader audience.
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The US-China AI Race: Implications
DeepSeek’s success is a significant milestone in the global AI race, raising questions about the effectiveness of US export controls aimed at curbing China’s access to advanced chip technology and AI progress. Despite restrictions initiated in 2021 under the Biden administration to limit the supply of US-made chips to China, DeepSeek’s achievements demonstrate that China’s AI ecosystem remains resilient.
Why Deep Seek AI is Better Than ChatGPT
Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | Deep Seek AI | ChatGPT |
|---|---|---|
| Specialization | Deep data search and analysis | General-purpose conversational AI |
| Search Depth | Advanced algorithms for deep search | Limited to conversational context |
| Accuracy | 92% in complex queries | 78% with occasional irrelevant data |
| Context Awareness | Highly specialized for niche queries | Broad, sometimes less specific |
| Real-Time Insights | Analyzes live datasets | Relies on static training updates |
| Integration Capabilities | Seamless with databases and APIs | Limited integrations |
| Pricing | Cheaper and flexible plans | Higher premium costs |
| Free Version Functionality | Robust basic features | Limited in free tier |
Conclusion
DeepSeek’s ascent to the top of the US App Store is not just a milestone for the company but also a testament to the global shift in AI innovation. With its advanced DeepSeek-V3 model, affordability, and rapid adoption, the startup has set a new benchmark in the AI landscape, challenging the dominance of established players like ChatGPT.
