YANGON -- As technology continues to expand across Myanmar, artificial intelligence (AI) is helping people solve everyday challenges, learn new skills and boost productivity.

AI-powered tools, particularly chatbots, have become a key part of this technological transformation, offering practical solutions and engaging users from various walks of life.

One notable development is the recently launched DeepSeek R1 model, which has garnered global attention for its cutting-edge advancements and received praise from Myanmar users for its proficiency in Myanmar language.

Since its release, DeepSeek R1 has gone viral, with content creators and social media users sharing positive feedback on its capabilities. The chatbot has also sparked widespread discussion, attracting both AI enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Among those impressed by DeepSeek is Aung Aung, a 31-year-old IT technician in Yangon, who praised its capabilities. "DeepSeek's Myanmar language responses are better compared to those of other AI chatbots," he said.

As a regular AI user, he also shared how AI has transformed his work. "AI has become an essential part of my life. In the past, I needed to read long texts or watch lengthy YouTube videos to fix technical problems. Now, I just ask AI and try it myself. It's extremely helpful," he explained.

Like other professionals in various fields, 29-year-old veterinarian Cherry Swe Aye from Maubin township, Ayeyarwady region, has also found AI to be a valuable tool. She highlighted how AI chatbots assist her in the work. "I use AI to create PowerPoint presentations, draw graphs, and calculate feed rates and feed costs for my clients' farms," she shared.

She added that she found DeepSeek's responses, particularly in Myanmar language, to be better and more natural than other AI chatbots she had used.

For university student Sandar Cho, 21, AI has become an essential learning aid. "When I don't understand a concept, I turn to AI. It's like having a tutor available 24/7," she said, adding that the tool also helps her with assignments by providing ideas and making learning easier.

For researcher Aye Mar Way, AI chatbots assist with brainstorming ideas and enhancing creativity. "AI helps me with my research. It's incredibly useful," she said, though she cautioned against blindly trusting AI-generated content. "Sometimes, AI provides false information that seems real. It's important to verify the responses," she warned.

AI has also proven valuable for translators. Ye Naung, a 32-year-old translator, uses AI to improve his English translations. "When I translate from Myanmar to English, AI helps me correct my spelling and refine my grammar quickly. It's like having a proofreader available all the time," he said.

Aung Chit Khin, founder and president of Strategy First University in Yangon, praised DeepSeek for overcoming the language barrier for non-English speakers. "In the past, I teased that people who couldn't use English were left behind when it came to AI. But now, they can use AI in Myanmar language with DeepSeek, and it is free to use," he said.

He also emphasized AI's potential for small businesses. "For small businesses, AI is like having a skilled advisor for free. It can help with creating marketing plans and estimating business costs."

U Aung Htein, a 63-year-old retired official, remains actively engaged with technology, particularly AI. "AI plays a significant role in my daily routine ... It's like having a personalized assistant that helps me learn about real-time situations, both in my country and globally," he said.

"AI has truly been a helpful companion in many ways," he said.

However, he acknowledged the challenges older individuals face in using AI. He stressed the importance of digital literacy but noted that financial constraints make it difficult for many seniors to access advanced AI tools. He suggested that AI should be more personalized, support regional languages, and be user-friendly to minimize eye strain.

"My advice is simple: don't shy away from technology. AI can be an incredible tool for learning, creativity and staying connected with the world. Start small, explore its capabilities and embrace digital literacy. It's never too late to learn something new," he said.