The competition in the field of Artificial Intelligence is becoming increasingly balanced and fierce, ushering in a new phase of technological confrontation between major powers.
According to the 2026 Artificial Intelligence Index (AI Index) report published on April 13th by the Stanford University Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence Institute (Stanford HAI), China currently leads the world in the number of scientific publications, citations, and total patents in this field.
Launched annually in 2017, the Artificial Intelligence Index report is one of the most comprehensive sources of assessment of AI development worldwide , covering aspects such as technological capabilities, research output, social impact, and public perception.
According to the report, China not only leads in the volume of scientific publications and patents in Artificial Intelligence but also in the number of industrial robots deployed, reflecting the rapid expansion of this technology in the manufacturing sector. These results demonstrate the country's long-term investment strategy and close coordination between the government , businesses, and research institutions.
The United States still maintains a significant advantage in developing leading Artificial Intelligence models and possesses many high-impact patents. The US is also the largest spender on Artificial Intelligence research and development.
However, the Artificial Intelligence Index report indicates that the US's ability to attract global AI talent is facing increasing challenges amid rising international competition.
Another noteworthy point is that the performance gap between US and Chinese AI models is gradually narrowing. This indicates that the competition in the field of AI is becoming increasingly balanced and fierce, ushering in a new phase of technological confrontation between major powers.
The report also noted the unprecedented expansion of Artificial Intelligence applications globally, with technology adoption rates reaching record highs. However, while technological capabilities are advancing rapidly, mechanisms for measuring, governing, and ensuring responsible Artificial Intelligence development are lagging behind.
Alongside the achievements, the report warns of growing challenges, including the environmental costs of operating large-scale Artificial Intelligence systems, issues of transparency, and the uneven distribution of benefits among countries.
The impact of Artificial Intelligence on the labor market is shifting from predictions to reality, with young workers being the first to be affected. The formal education system is also considered to have failed to keep pace with technological development, widening the skills gap in society.
Another prominent trend is the rise of the concept of “Artificial Intelligence sovereignty,” as more and more countries view technological and data autonomy as a key element in their national development and security strategies, despite significant disparities in capabilities among nations.
The report also highlights a stark difference between the views of experts and the public on the future of Artificial Intelligence.
While experts often view this technology with caution and focus on its potential risks, the public tends to be more optimistic about the benefits that Artificial Intelligence can bring.