Sam Altman says DeepSeek's R1 cost-effective AI is impressive, but OpenAI will "obviously deliver much better models" than it — "Look forward to bringing you all AGI and beyond."

The X account of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is displayed on a mobile phone with a ChatGPT logo.
OpenAI's CEO is still confident the company will come out ahead. (Image credit: Getty Images | NurPhoto)

"DeepSeek's R1 is an impressive model, particularly around what they're able to deliver for the price," indicated OpenAI CEO Sam Altman while commenting about the Chinese startup's AI frenzy on X (formerly Twitter). "We will obviously deliver much better models and also it's legit invigorating to have a new competitor! We will pull up some releases."

The executive indicated that the ChatGPT maker plans to continue to execute its research roadmap. Despite DeepSeek surpassing OpenAI's o1 reasoning model capabilities across math, science, and coding at a fraction of its development cost, Altman reiterates the importance and need for more computing power to facilitate sophisticated AI advances.

Related: OpenAI's for-profit evolution hits major roadblock

OpenAI CEO's comments could be centered around its recently unveiled $500 billion Stargate project, designed to facilitate the construction of data centers across the United States to facilitate AI advances. China is seemingly giving US-based AI giants a run for their money despite stringent rules imposed during the Biden-Harris administration in 2024, preventing advanced AI chip importation.

The world is going to want to use a LOT of ai, and really be quite amazed by the next gen models coming. Look forward to bringing you all AGI and beyond.

OpenAI CEO, Sam Altman

Altman's comments are interesting, especially after Meta lead AI scientist, Yann LeCun, claimed DeepSeek's open-source approach for its AI models is the key ingredient to its success in the AI landscape, promoting its broad adoption across the US after dethroning ChatGPT as the most downloaded free AI app on Apple's App Store in the US. The AI specialist indicated that the Chinese startup's approach to AI seemingly brings the ChatGPT maker's founding mission back to life.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella also weighed in on the DeepSeek AI frenzy, touting it as super-impressive. According to the CEO:

“As AI gets more efficient and accessible, we will see its use skyrocket, turning it into a commodity we just can’t get enough of.”

He indicated that developments from China should be taken very seriously, as the use of AI could skyrocket as the technology becomes more accessible and efficient.

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Kevin Okemwa
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Kevin Okemwa is a seasoned tech journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya with lots of experience covering the latest trends and developments in the industry at Windows Central. With a passion for innovation and a keen eye for detail, he has written for leading publications such as OnMSFT, MakeUseOf, and Windows Report, providing insightful analysis and breaking news on everything revolving around the Microsoft ecosystem. You'll also catch him occasionally contributing at iMore about Apple and AI. While AFK and not busy following the ever-emerging trends in tech, you can find him exploring the world or listening to music.