DeepSeek’s AI Boom and Backlash: Why New Users Are Locked Out

The AI world has been buzzing with excitement—and controversy—after DeepSeek’s chatbot skyrocketed to the top of the U.S. free app charts, momentarily surpassing even ChatGPT. But with great success comes great challenges. In response to malicious attacks on its systems, DeepSeek has now restricted new sign-ups to users with mainland China phone numbers, shutting out the rest of the world.

The Rise of DeepSeek AI

DeepSeek’s AI chatbot made waves in the tech community, gaining massive traction globally. With its rapid success, the app briefly overtook ChatGPT in popularity, reflecting users’ growing curiosity about new AI alternatives. The surge in demand was so impactful that it even influenced global tech stock values, showing just how powerful AI competition has become.

The Challenge: Security vs. Accessibility

Unfortunately, with popularity came problems. DeepSeek faced malicious attacks, forcing the company to take strict security measures. Now, only users with a mainland China phone number can sign up, effectively cutting off international access. While this move protects the platform, it also raises concerns about AI accessibility, global expansion, and open innovation.

What’s Next?

With DeepSeek limiting new users, the AI community is left wondering—will they reopen sign-ups globally, or is this the start of a more China-focused AI ecosystem? Meanwhile, competitors like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini continue to dominate, and the AI arms race shows no signs of slowing down.

As the dust settles, one thing is clear: DeepSeek’s rise has shaken the AI industry, and its next steps will be crucial in shaping the future of AI accessibility worldwide.