Microsoft integrates DeepSeek’s AI model into Azure and GitHub
Microsoft plans to enable local use of DeepSeek’s R1 model, addressing data privacy concerns.
Microsoft has introduced Chinese startup DeepSeek’s R1 AI to its Azure cloud platform and GitHub tool for developers. The R1 model is now part of Microsoft’s extensive model catalogue, which includes over 1,800 AI models. The move reflects Microsoft’s efforts to diversify beyond OpenAI’s ChatGPT and integrate third-party AI technologies into its flagship Microsoft 365 Copilot product.
DeepSeek has recently gained attention for its cost-effective AI assistant, which surpassed ChatGPT in downloads on Apple’s App Store shortly after its launch. However, its use of servers in China for storing user data has raised privacy concerns in the United States. To address such issues, Microsoft announced plans to allow customers to run the R1 model locally on Copilot+ PCs, offering enhanced control over data-sharing.
The rise of DeepSeek has triggered a competitive response from AI industry leaders. OpenAI is investigating allegations that its data may have been misused by a group linked to DeepSeek, while releasing a tailored ChatGPT version for US government agencies. China’s Alibaba has also launched an updated version of its Qwen AI model, underscoring the intensifying race in the global AI sector.
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