A revolutionary open-source AI model, **DeepSeek R1**, has made a significant impact on the artificial intelligence sector this week. Unveiled unexpectedly by the Chinese AI firm **DeepSeek**, the model is being recognized as a formidable competitor to OpenAI’s high-priced AI solutions.
### DeepSeek R1: A Fresh Competitor in Advanced AI
DeepSeek R1 is a sophisticated reasoning model that asserts it can surpass some of the most renowned large language models (LLMs), including OpenAI’s esteemed systems. DeepSeek reports that their model excels in various **key benchmarks**, especially in domains like mathematical problem-solving, programming, and reasoning tasks.
In a practical evaluation, Mashable’s Stan Schroeder remarked that DeepSeek R1 competes effectively with ChatGPT, particularly in addressing intricate coding issues. Schroeder also emphasized the model’s productivity, stating, *”DeepSeek proves that highly capable AI with advanced reasoning skills doesn’t need to entail exorbitant training expenses or depend on the most powerful hardware accessible to U.S. AI firms.”*
### What Makes DeepSeek R1 Unique
One of the most remarkable features of DeepSeek R1 is its cost-effectiveness. The model was trained at a mere fraction of the expense normally linked to other top-tier AI systems, employing less potent hardware. This efficiency could indicate a transformation in the AI ecosystem, demonstrating that state-of-the-art AI doesn’t have to be excessively pricey to create or implement.
### How to Access DeepSeek R1 for Free
For those keen to investigate alternatives to the leading AI players in the industry, DeepSeek R1 is offered at no charge. Users can interact with the model’s chatbot directly on the [DeepSeek website](https://www.deepseek.com/) or download it from the [Apple App Store](https://mashable.com/article/deepseek-chatgpt-apple-app-store). To begin, you’ll need to set up an account or log in using your Google credentials.
### Economical API Access
DeepSeek R1’s API is also up for grabs at an astonishingly low price — only **$0.14 per million input tokens**, which is a significant difference compared to OpenAI’s $7.50 for the same amount. The model is available in several sizes, from a compact 1.5-billion-parameter version to the comprehensive 32-billion-parameter model. For developers and enterprises, this positions DeepSeek R1 as an appealing and budget-friendly option. You can register for API access on DeepSeek’s [platform](https://platform.deepseek.com/sign_in).
### A Possible Industry Disruptor
With its remarkable abilities and low-cost accessibility, DeepSeek R1 is already causing a stir in the AI field. Whether you are a developer, researcher, or just inquisitive about the latest developments in AI, DeepSeek R1 presents a convincing alternative to the pricier, closed-source models that currently prevail in the market.