The generative AI market is no longer a one-horse race. The arrival of powerful and remarkably low-cost models from China, exemplified by DeepSeek, signals a seismic shift. For Australian developers and businesses, this introduces a compelling new choice, with some local developers already planning to swap out more expensive AI services for this cheaper alternative. This isn’t just about saving money; it’s about a fundamental change in the accessibility of cutting-edge AI.
It is crucial, however, to distinguish between using a model like DeepSeek as an API service versus deploying it as an open-source model. Accessing it as a service is a straightforward, pay-as-you-go affair, ideal for rapid development and integration. In contrast, using the open-source model offers greater control and customisation but demands significant in-house expertise to manage and maintain the infrastructure. The choice between the two will depend on an organisation’s technical maturity, resources, and strategic goals. What is clear is that the AI landscape is becoming more diverse, and for Australian organisations, that can only be a good thing.
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