DeepSeek AI, a fast-emerging Chinese startup, has quickly positioned itself as a strong competitor to established AI tools like ChatGPT. Its newly launched R1 model offers ChatGPT-level performance with a big advantage: it’s completely free. This has propelled DeepSeek R1 to the top of the iPhone App Store charts, highlighting just how rapidly it’s catching on. Below, we’ll walk you through installing and using DeepSeek on both PCs and mobile devices.
How to Use DeepSeek R1 on a Computer
Follow these steps to get started with DeepSeek R1 on your PC:
- Visit the Official DeepSeek R1 Website
Head over to the DeepSeek R1 website and choose how you’d like to sign in—options include using your email, Gmail, or phone number. - Log In and Start Exploring
Once you’ve logged in, you’ll see an interface that looks much like ChatGPT. From here, you can immediately begin using the AI features.
How to Use DeepSeek R1 on Mobile Devices
DeepSeek R1 is also available on smartphones, making it convenient for users who prefer on-the-go access. It has quickly become one of the most downloaded apps worldwide. Here’s how to get it:
- Download from App Store or Play Store
Look for the DeepSeek R1 app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and install it. - Sign In with Preferred Credentials
Use your email, Gmail, or phone number—whatever you prefer—to sign in. - Enjoy Cross-Platform Compatibility
The mobile version offers the same robust AI features as the web version, ensuring a smooth experience across all devices.
What Makes DeepSeek R1 Stand Out
- Open-Source Model: DeepSeek R1 is based on an open-source framework, making it easy for tech-savvy users to integrate or even run locally using tools like Ollama.
- Free to Download: The basic version is completely free, lowering the barrier to entry for people who want to try out advanced AI.
- Advanced Features: Some functionalities may require more powerful hardware or a subscription plan, but everyday use remains accessible at no cost.
The Rapid Rise of DeepSeek
Ever since OpenAI’s ChatGPT debuted in late 2022, Chinese tech giants have been racing to develop their own chatbots. Baidu’s initial entry fell short of expectations, exposing the challenges in matching leading U.S. firms. DeepSeek, however, is reversing this narrative. Its DeepSeek-V3 and DeepSeek-R1 models have earned praise from Silicon Valley executives and U.S. tech engineers. The startup claims these models match top-tier AI from OpenAI and Meta, combining high performance with impressive cost-effectiveness.
If you’re looking for an AI tool on par with ChatGPT but want to avoid subscription costs, DeepSeek R1 is well worth a try. Its rapid ascent in popularity underscores a growing demand for free, high-performing AI solutions—on both computers and mobile devices.
