As The Global Competition For AI Intensifies, Chinese Apps Discontinue ChatGPT

Numerous Chinese apps have blocked ChatGPT, an AI chatbot created by OpenAI, which has gained worldwide popularity. Despite the app’s unofficial status in China, a few apps on WeChat previously provided access to the chatbot without requiring a VPN or foreign phone number.

However, these apps have discontinued ChatGPT services citing “infringement of relevant regulations” and “business modifications”. What led to these closures remains unclear, but indications suggest that China’s attitude towards ChatGPT may change.

According to state-run media, US authorities could utilize the chatbot to manipulate the general public and spread false news. They cited the chatbot’s Xinjiang-related responses as evidence of bias. Following reports that WeChat apps had discontinued ChatGPT services, several Chinese tech companies’ shares plummeted.

China Daily has emphasized the need for “strict regulations” in response to the growth of the chatbot. The closures’ exact motives remain unclear, but ChatGPT is facing a difficult situation in China.

Global Race For AI Dominance

OpenAI’s AI chatbot, ChatGPT, gained massive popularity in December for providing a detailed, sometimes incorrect response to queries. Its triumph has sparked a worldwide race in AI, with Microsoft and Google unveiling their ChatGPT-inspired tools. Chinese tech firms are also gearing up for AI development.

Alibaba revealed that it is experimenting with a ChatGPT-like tool. At the same time, Fudan University created MOSS, which became a viral hit, causing the platform to crash due to high user traffic. Baidu also unveiled ERNIE Bot, its AI chatbot, set to release in March. It will be utilized across multiple platforms, including a voice assistant for smart devices, its search engine, and autonomous driving technology.

Baidu anticipates the launch will establish a new gateway for the next-generation internet. As a result, more business owners and entrepreneurs will develop their models and applications on their AI Cloud.

Featured image from CNBC.com