The artificial intelligence application DeepSeek has been removed from Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store in Italy. Italian users attempting to download the app on Wednesday received messages stating that it was “currently not available in the country or area” on Apple’s platform and “not supported” on Google’s service.
Italy Restricts DeepSeek AI Amid Growing Data Privacy Concerns
According to a recent report, DeepSeek AI is unavailable on Apple and Google app stores in Italy. Despite this restriction, users who had previously installed the app can still access its services. The app remains available for download in other European Union countries and the United Kingdom.
The sudden removal of DeepSeek AI follows an inquiry by Italy’s data protection authority regarding the app’s data collection and storage practices. The regulator has asked DeepSeek to disclose the type of data collected, its sources, intended use, legal basis, and storage locations. The company has been given 20 days to respond.
Notably, the Chinese company recently gained widespread attention after surpassing ChatGPT in downloads on Apple’s App Store. The rapid growth of the AI application led to concerns among investors, triggering a sell-off in technology stocks. The app’s rise has been attributed to its claims of offering AI services at a lower cost than competitors.
The increasing adoption of DeepSeek has drawn scrutiny from regulators and competitors alike. The Italian data regulator, known for its active stance on AI oversight, has previously taken similar actions, including a temporary ban on ChatGPT in 2023.
OpenAI’s Allegations Against DeepSeek
In a parallel development, OpenAI has alleged that DeepSeek may have used its research and technology to develop its AI model. The accusations revolve around a process called knowledge distillation, which involves extracting insights from pre-existing AI models to improve performance at a reduced cost.
OpenAI has stated that Chinese and other foreign companies are consistently attempting to leverage the work of leading U.S. AI firms. Speaking to Fox News, White House AI and crypto czar, David Sacks added,
“There’s substantial evidence that what DeepSeek did here is they distilled the knowledge out of OpenAI’s models,” Mr Sacks said. I think one of the things you’re going to see over the next few months is our leading AI companies taking steps to try and prevent distillation. That would slow down some of these copycat models.”
US National Security Concerns
In addition, a recent CNN report highlighted that U.S. officials are evaluating the national security risks associated with DeepSeek’s expansion. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the National Security Council is examining the potential implications of the app’s rise.
The U.S. Navy has already taken precautionary measures by banning its personnel from using DeepSeek due to security and ethical concerns. The rapid emergence of DeepSeek AI has prompted discussions on regulatory oversight, competitive practices, and data security.
Additionally, to maintain a competitive edge, OpenAI launched ChatGPT Gov for U.S. agencies, ensuring secure AI use within Microsoft Azure. The platform enhances efficiency in tasks like policy drafting, data analysis, and cybersecurity. With over 90,000 government employees using ChatGPT since 2024, OpenAI aims to meet strict compliance standards.
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