DeepSeek’s Long-Awaited New Model Fails to Narrow US Lead in AI

When China’s DeepSeek released a competitive new artificial intelligence model called R1 last January purportedly built for less than many rivals, some feared the achievement posed a threat to America’s lead in artificial intelligence.

More than a year later, DeepSeek has unveiled preview versions of a long-awaited new flagship model called V4, which costs less than many alternatives to use but doesn’t meaningfully narrow the US lead in AI capabilities. You could almost hear sighs of relief emanating from Washington and Silicon Valley.