Chinese startup Moonshot has introduced a new generative artificial intelligence model named Kimi K2 Thinking, which claims superiority over OpenAI's ChatGPT in its ability to comprehend user intentions without needing explicit instructions.
The model expands on the previous K2 model launched in July by Beijing-based Moonshot, which benefits from backing by Alibaba. The initiative arrives amid calls from Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang for the U.S. to remain competitive against Chinese AI developments. High-profile American firms like Airbnb have started recognizing some Chinese AI models as not only viable but also cost-effective alternatives to OpenAI's technology.
Despite U.S. restrictions hindering Chinese companies' access to advanced chips, firms such as DeepSeek have open-sourced AI models, offering user fees significantly lower than those of ChatGPT. DeepSeek noted that it invested $5.6 million in its V3 model's development, a mere fraction compared to OpenAI's spending.
For Moonshot, the training of the Kimi K2 Thinking model reportedly required $4.6 million, according to sources. The tool has the capability to autonomously select between 200 and 300 tools for task completion, which reduces the need for human contribution, as stated by Moonshot. These financial figures, however, have not been independently verified by CNBC.
In related news, last month, DeepSeek launched a novel AI model designed to enhance performance by employing visual cues to process more contextual information in real time.