OpenAI Postpones Launch of Open-Source AI Model to Compete with DeepSeek

Sam Altman, the CEO and founder of OpenAI, announced that the release of the company’s first open-source artificial intelligence (AI) model has been indefinitely delayed to conduct additional safety tests, highlighting challenges in keeping pace with competitors, particularly Chinese firms like DeepSeek.

While OpenAI’s proprietary models maintain a technological edge, Altman indicated that more time is necessary for the development of the open-source model, which will differ from previous offerings like ChatGPT by allowing outside developers to examine and modify the source code.

Users are eagerly anticipating this open-source model as Chinese AI companies like DeepSeek and Alibaba lead a global movement towards open-source solutions. These companies have developed accessible applications based on foundational models, providing significant competition to OpenAI’s offerings.

DeepSeek’s recent launch of its R1 model has gained attention for its capabilities comparable to OpenAI’s paid models, yet it is largely free due to lower development costs. Commentators suggest that the unexpected success of DeepSeek may have encouraged OpenAI to pivot towards an open-source strategy.

Altman acknowledged the feedback from users and emphasized the importance of careful execution, stating, “This is new for us. We want to get it right.” As anticipation builds for the imminent release, Altman reassured users that the team is dedicated to refining the product.