Newest AI from Chinese startup DeepSeek claims it can outperform leading models for a fraction of the cost. Google Gemini and ChatGPT say proceed with caution.

In theory, any AI alternative that consumes fewer resources should be better for the environment. Yet when Salon reached out to experts about the potential promise in DeepSeek’s potential “Sputnik” moment (to quote billionaire software developer Marc Andreessen), they expressed cautious optimism.

DeepSeek blends hedge-fund-level financing, open-source ambition, and a deep-rooted mission to surpass human intelligence, all while managing to outshine established names like OpenAI. Yet, with such rapid growth come questions.