Did Manus Experience a DeepSeek-Like Surge? Chinese AI Agent Encounters Skepticism Following Swift Ascent to Prominence
Introduction to Manus AI
A new artificial intelligence (AI) agent called Manus, developed by a Chinese team, has generated considerable buzz in the tech world. Though it promises to tackle complex tasks effectively, many potential users struggle to access it due to reported server capacity issues.
Availability Challenges
Limited Access
Manus has quickly attracted attention since its launch. However, its availability is hindered by an "invite-only" system directed at managing user access amid overwhelming demand. Zhang Tao, a product partner for Manus AI, shared on social media that the team underestimated public interest, resulting in server resources that could only accommodate limited demonstrations.
Scarcity and Market Tactics
The restrictions have led to a race among users trying to obtain access to the platform. Some have resorted to the second-hand marketplace Xianyu, where invitation codes are being sold or accounts rented out. Critics have raised eyebrows about the team’s marketing strategies, suggesting that they may be intentionally creating a sense of scarcity to increase demand.
Technical Credibility and Originality
Features and Technology
Despite the excitement surrounding Manus, questions have arisen regarding the originality of its technology. The AI is built upon existing large language models (LLMs), similar to those powering services like ChatGPT. There is no public disclosure of the specific LLMs being used, which contrasts with the innovations introduced by companies like DeepSeek.
Multi-Agent System
Manus operates as a multi-agent system, employing various distinct models, as explained by Ji Yichao, the co-founder and chief scientist. In a demonstration video, he noted that the team is grateful to the open-source community and aims to release some models to offer back to the community.
Company Background
Team and Development
The development of Manus comes from a company known as Butterfly Effect, which has a modest team of about two dozen employees located in Beijing and Wuhan. The rapid rise of Manus attracted attention from local media, particularly as Wuhan’s local government aims to enhance its presence in the AI sector.
Key Players
The founding team includes Xiao Hong, a 33-year-old entrepreneur known for launching popular applications in the past, including the AI assistant Monica.ai. Graduating from Huazhong University of Science and Technology in 2015, Xiao’s past ventures were successful enough to garner acquisitions. During a live-stream session, he emphasized that AI developers should take cues from smartphone manufacturers, focusing on branding, supply chains, and distribution strategies.
Current Situation and Future Steps
Social Media Presence
Compounding its challenges, the official Manus account on X (formerly known as Twitter) was suspended due to rule violations. Yichao Ji stated that they are in discussions with the platform’s support team to address the issue. The suspension may have been partially triggered by unrelated cryptocurrency scams gaining traction by trying to exploit Manus’s increased visibility.
Looking Ahead
Zhang Tao acknowledged that the current version of Manus is just in its early stages and is far from the ultimate vision the team has for the product. As they navigate user demand and technical hurdles, the Manus team remains committed to refining its AI capabilities and expanding access for interested users.
In summary, Manus AI is making headlines for both its potential and the challenges it faces. The developers are working on increasing accessibility while addressing concerns about the originality and technical capacity of their product. The excitement surrounding this AI agent reflects a growing interest in the field, as companies strive to innovate within the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence technology.
