In just one year of existence, OpenAI’s ChatGPT has become the frontrunner in the realm of AI-powered conversational tools. It has recorded a staggering surge in global Google searches.
Data gathered by Finbold reveals a remarkable 400 percent spike in popularity. It reached a peak score of 100 on November 5, 2023, up from a modest 20 score on January 1.
Breaking down the global fascination with the AI tool, China takes the lead with a score of 100. It is followed closely by the Philippines and Nepal at 32. Singapore and Sri Lanka share the third spot with a score of 31.
Driving forces behind soaring demand
The surge in demand for ChatGPT can be attributed to its functionality and strategic advantage over its AI counterparts. Microsoft‘s investment in OpenAI has further solidified this position, integrating ChatGPT into various products, including Bing.
Moreover, ChatGPT’s effectiveness in diverse tasks across industries, from coding to content generation, has driven its usage and popularity. Also, Microsoft’s backing has given it an edge as a pioneer in the AI conversation space.
The increasing adoption and demand for ChatGPT have fueled continuous improvements. Over the past year, OpenAI launched a mobile application, introduced a subscription service (ChatGPT Plus), and implemented memory upgrades. The latest update even allows users to create personalized AI assistants and access a marketplace for chatbots, similar to an app Store.
ChatGPT’s success has not only boosted OpenAI but has contributed to the growth of related companies in the AI sector. Between January and November 2023, $2.86 trillion in market capitalization flowed into AI companies. Notably, chipmaker Nvidia reached a market capitalization of over $1 trillion.
ChatGPT, in high demand in China
Despite China’s crackdown on ChatGPT, demand in the country remains high. Users are finding alternative routes to access the tool, including VPNs and mirror sites. That comes in light of local tech giants like Tencent opposing and removing ChatGPT-related programs from their platforms.
Chinese tech giants, including Baidu, Alibaba, and ByteDance, have launched their own AI-powered conversational agents to compete with ChatGPT. For example, Baidu, a significant AI company in China, launched Ernie Bot, the first Chinese rival to ChatGPT. These companies have implemented waitlists or approval systems, restricting access for users and contributing to the increased demand for ChatGPT. In this climate, speculation arose that local Chinese tech giants might prepare to unveil their versions of AI-powered conversational agents.
Read: Elon Musk integrates xAI with social media platform X
The future landscape
As ChatGPT approaches its one-year milestone, challenges such as lawsuits and concerns about the dangers of AI emerge. Google’s entry into the market with Bard poses a challenge to ChatGPT’s market share. OpenAI’s ability to innovate and address legal concerns will be crucial in determining its future growth trajectory. Amidst its growth, OpenAI faces a lawsuit alleging copyright infringement, highlighting the legal challenges surrounding AI development. As the tool matures, ethical considerations and potential regulations may shape its continued evolution.
For more technology news, click here.
