Your Undivided Attention America and China Are Racing to Different AI Futures
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Dec 18, 2025 
Join experts Selina Xu and Matt Sheehan as they delve into the complex landscape of AI in China. Selina, a technology analyst known for her insights on AI policy, and Matt, a senior fellow at Carnegie focusing on global tech, dissect the myths surrounding China’s AI ambitions. They explore the stark differences between China's application-focused AI strategy and the U.S. pursuit of AGI. From Shanghai's vibrant AI scene to the implications of U.S. export controls, their conversation sparks a new understanding of global AI dynamics and the potential for cooperation.
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Tech Sparked Tangible Gains In China
- China experienced rapid, tangible gains from mobile internet adoption, which fostered public optimism toward new technologies.
- Americans feel more pessimistic because technology's recent effects on politics and social life often felt harmful.
Convenience Came With Surveillance Tradeoffs
- China's rapid tech adoption included widespread AI-enabled surveillance like facial recognition tied to everyday life.
- Convenience and surveillance advanced together, producing both benefits and significant control risks.
Jobs Concern Rises But Optimism Persists
- Youth unemployment in China is high and rising, but many citizens and policymakers still view AI optimistically as a productivity booster.
- Policymakers currently emphasize upskilling rather than resisting automation, though concern about job impacts is increasing.