Content Analysis of DeepSeek’s Disruption in the Technology Industry

Purpose: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a powerful catalyst for change in the modern world, transforming industries, economies, and daily life. Through methods like machine learning, deep learning, and neural networks, AI systems excel at processing vast amounts of data, enabling predictive analytics, automation, and sophisticated decision-making. This paper examines feedback given in response to the launch of the DeepSeek AI model, collected from accessible sources such as YouTube. Methodology: This research is based on video content analysis. Our search strategy led to the identification of over 300 videos published shortly after DeepSeek, a Chinese AI startup, unveiled its R1 Model in late January 2025. We selected 29 videos from individual YouTubers and 22 from YouTube podcast news outlets. The transcripts of 51 videos were generated from YouTube using Glasp, and insights were summarized in Blackbox.ai. We analyzed comments qualitatively with ChatGPT and DeepSeek. We evaluated YouTubers’ comments on criteria such as strength, technology, authenticity, accessibility, user experience, downsides, and future implications. In contrast, comments from podcast channels focused on the main messages conveyed by newscasters and commentators. Findings: DeepSeek is regarded as a significant competitor, particularly in relation to OpenAI. However, challenges are expected to arise post-DeepSeek as awareness increases that the AI competitive landscape is rapidly changing, potentially leading to a surge in AI models and intensified competition among major tech players. A unique contribution to theory, practice, and policy: DeepSeek advances AI theory and practice by enhancing cultural adaptation in large language models, particularly for Chinese. It creates efficient architectures that cut down computational costs without compromising performance. The company provides tailored AI solutions for industries like finance and healthcare and budget-friendly tools for small businesses. DeepSeek is proficient in analyzing informal Chinese internet data, such as social media and dialects. Regarding policy, it influences AI governance frameworks in China, striving for a balance between innovation and ethics while participating in global debates on data sovereignty. By integrating Confucian ethics into AI fairness and connecting localized innovation with scalable solutions, DeepSeek tackles technical, societal, and regulatory challenges within both Eastern and international AI contexts.