AI Models: Tools for Strategic Power

Talal Abu-Ghazaleh
In the arena of global technology, AI models stand as towering figures, shaping not just the future of computation but also the geopolitical landscape. At the forefront of this revolution there is the notable ChatGPT which has revolutionized AI, bringing it to the masses and delivering immense value in a way that was just not previously possible. Its newest iteration ChatGPT 4, represents a significant leap in natural language processing with over 400 billion parameters. This has set the benchmark, with tech giants competing to build their own generative AI models as they know their future survival depends on it. This is a watershed moment, just as the arrival of the Internet was, with domination in this field, a top priority on the radars of all tech companies. All the big tech players, Microsoft, Google, Amazon and others, are scrambling to develop their offerings in this space. 

However, this is not just about competition between technology companies in the West. Rather this has become a global phenomenon with China building on-par competitors to ChatGPT, having a very healthy AI scene which is catering for the Chinese audience. ChatGPT’s main competitor though is SenseNova 5.0 which has been trained by 600 billion parameters, allowing it to perform complex tasks, performing neck to neck with ChatGPT in a range of applications, reflecting intense competition and rapid development with western competition.  

Internally, China has a range of healthy AI competition between its tech giants, with Alibaba, Baidu and others developing their own sophisticated AI models. They too understand that the stakes are high and that their future prosperity relies on excelling in this technology. For both China and the US, these AI models are clearly more than mere tools; they are emblems of national prowess and strategic assets in the ongoing tech battle between the US and China; a rivalry that extends across various sectors, including semiconductors, quantum computing, and biotech, with each nation striving to secure technological superiority.

The implications of this AI race are profound. Politically, it could redefine alliances and power dynamics. Technologically, it may lead to a split of global tech standards and supply chains. In terms of data, these AI systems will certainly shape how information is processed and presented, influencing worldviews and decision-making processes. Data is fundamentally important in this race, as well as the development of robust ethical, responsible frameworks for their development to ensure a fair and a transparent sector is developed. Whether these are developed in collaboration between the US and China, or separately, remains to be seen

The world is witnessing a new dawn in the annals of technological advancement, where AI models are the bedrock that will help define the future. This is a race where the stakes are high, and the winner could dictate the pace and direction of technological progress in the 21st century. As these technologies continue to evolve, they will not only serve as tools for strategic power but also as catalysts for change.The AI race is indeed on, and its outcome will have lasting effects on politics, technology, and the very fabric of society.