Texas bans DeepSeek and RedNote AI apps on state devices

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued an executive order prohibiting state officials from using Chinese-owned applications DeepSeek and RedNote, along with several other apps, on government devices.

Key policy details: The ban specifically targets Chinese-owned technology that could potentially harvest data through AI and social media applications on Texas government devices.

• The order extends to multiple Chinese-owned applications, including Webull, Tiger Brokers, Moomoo, and Lemon8
• This action follows Abbott’s previous ban of TikTok on government devices in 2022
• The restriction specifically applies to state agencies and employees handling critical infrastructure, intellectual property, and personal information

Rising concerns: DeepSeek and RedNote have recently gained significant popularity in the United States, prompting increased scrutiny of Chinese-owned technology.

• RedNote emerged as one of the top free downloads in Apple’s U.S. app store during TikTok’s brief court-ordered ban
• DeepSeek, an artificial intelligence startup, has drawn attention for its ability to compete with established U.S. tech companies
• The ban reflects growing concerns about data security and potential foreign surveillance through popular applications

Notable reactions: The emergence of DeepSeek has sparked varied responses from prominent technology leaders and political figures.

• Former President Trump characterized DeepSeek’s market presence as a “wake-up call” for American industries
• Former Google CEO Eric Schmitt described DeepSeek’s emergence as a “turning point” in global AI competition, noting its ability to compete with fewer resources
• OpenAI’s Sam Altman and Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg have downplayed DeepSeek’s impact, with Altman stating its influence has been “wildly overstated”

Strategic implications: The expanding restrictions on Chinese-owned technology reflect broader tensions between U.S. and Chinese technological competition, particularly in critical sectors like artificial intelligence and social media platforms.

• Abbott emphasized the need to protect Texas from “hostile foreign actors” and prevent potential data harvesting
• The ban highlights growing concerns about Chinese companies’ access to sensitive government information and infrastructure
• These measures mirror similar actions taken at both state and federal levels to restrict Chinese-owned technology access to government systems