# China Rewrites the 'Soft Power' Playbook for the AI Age China is boosting its global influence with open-source, low-cost artificial intelligence software. - **Source:** [NYT > Technology](https://brifing.si/source/decc78ce-c15d-4060-967b-334c94229615) - **Published:** 2026-07-23 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/15c8416d-9b30-4be6-be4a-3487c1640a8a ## Transformation of Soft Power Strategy China is moving beyond traditional soft power tools by leveraging artificial intelligence technologies. It aims to increase its global influence through open-source and low-cost software, representing a new dimension of tech diplomacy. ## Open-Source AI Software China is sharing its open-source AI software with the international community. This strategy strengthens its claim to technological leadership while aiming to gain goodwill in developing countries. ## Global Impact and Diplomacy AI software has become a new tool for China to enhance its global influence. These technologies are particularly used to address infrastructure gaps in developing countries, strengthening China's diplomatic relations. ## Economic and Strategic Benefits China's release of open-source AI software provides long-term economic and strategic benefits. This move helps Chinese tech companies gain a stronger foothold in the global market. ## Technology and Power Balance China's advancements in AI have the potential to shift the global power balance. Open-source software increases China's tech exports while also increasing other countries' dependence on its technology. ## The Future Soft Power Tool AI is becoming central to China's soft power strategy. These technologies serve as a means to sustain China's global influence and forge new alliances. This strategy is expected to expand further in the future. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/23/business/china-ai-soft-power.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._