• An illustration by Mariaelena Caputi showing a race between two androids running while carrying the flags of their respective countries: the United States and China.
  • An illustration by Mariaelena Caputi showing a race between two androids running while carrying the flags of their respective countries: the United States and China.

Race of the century

Who would win in an artificial-intelligence race between America and China? The idea of a superpower showdown that culminates in a moment of triumph or defeat circulates relentlessly in Washington and beyond. Yet a recent meeting of the Communist Party’s leadership suggests it is preparing for a different kind of race. Rather than the Western concept of superhuman tech China is doing AI differently, betting on a more everyday approach.

  • An illustration by Mariaelena Caputi showing a race between two androids running while carrying the flags of their respective countries: the United States and China.
  • An illustration by Mariaelena Caputi showing a race between two androids running while carrying the flags of their respective countries: the United States and China.

Race of the century

Who would win in an artificial-intelligence race between America and China? The idea of a superpower showdown that culminates in a moment of triumph or defeat circulates relentlessly in Washington and beyond. Yet a recent meeting of the Communist Party’s leadership suggests it is preparing for a different kind of race. Rather than the Western concept of superhuman tech China is doing AI differently, betting on a more everyday approach.