Chinese AI models are rapidly gaining popularity in Silicon Valley, with companies like Alibaba and Moonshot offering cost-effective alternatives to US counterparts like OpenAI. Notable figures such as Airbnb’s CEO have praised these models for their performance and affordability, highlighting a trend where many American startups are secretly adopting Chinese technology. Despite US export controls on advanced chips, Chinese firms have demonstrated resilience and innovation, making their models the de facto standard for cost-conscious startups. This shift underscores the competitive landscape in AI, where Chinese offerings are increasingly recognized for their effectiveness and affordability.






