OpenAI is looking into whether DeepSeek stole its tech
Jan 30, 2025 - morningbrew.com
OpenAI and its major investor, Microsoft, are investigating the Chinese AI startup DeepSeek for allegedly using OpenAI's technology to develop a new AI model. This model reportedly caused a significant drop in US stock values. DeepSeek is accused of employing a technique called "distillation," which involves training one model on another, a practice that OpenAI prohibits for creating competing models. This situation has sparked criticism due to OpenAI's own controversial data-scraping practices, as it is currently embroiled in a lawsuit with the New York Times over the use of publicly available articles for training its AI.
The emergence of DeepSeek's powerful and cost-effective AI model poses a threat to OpenAI's market position, as it challenges established programs like ChatGPT and Llama. If DeepSeek gains prominence, it could potentially shift the dynamics of the AI industry, impacting OpenAI's status and influence.
Key takeaways:
OpenAI and Microsoft are investigating whether the Chinese AI startup DeepSeek stole OpenAI’s technology to build its new model.
DeepSeek is accused of using "distillation," a technique that trains one model on another, which is against OpenAI's policies.
Critics highlight the irony of OpenAI accusing others of stealing, given its own controversial data scraping practices.
DeepSeek's new AI model has significantly impacted US companies, challenging OpenAI's market position.
