China’s ‘Manus’ AI Model Emerges as a Challenger to OpenAI and Google
China has launched a new artificial intelligence (AI) model named Manus, developed by the startup Monica. This release, just weeks after the introduction of DeepSeek, highlights China’s intensifying efforts in the global AI race. Manus is designed as a general-purpose AI agent capable of executing tasks autonomously, without human intervention, and is drawing comparisons to top AI systems from OpenAI and Google.
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What is Manus?
Manus is an advanced AI agent created to think, plan, and execute real-world tasks independently. It can create websites, plan trips, analyze stocks, and much more based on a single user prompt. Unlike conventional AI chatbots, which provide answers, Manus takes full action to complete tasks. For instance, when asked to create a report on climate change, it will research, write the report, create charts, and compile everything into a final document without further instruction.
According to its developers, Manus outperforms OpenAI’s DeepResearch on the GAIA benchmark, a measure of AI performance. A demo video released by Monica shows Manus interacting with the internet, gathering data, and executing complex tasks in real-time. It can browse websites, take screenshots, record online activity, and create reports, spreadsheets, or presentations. This level of automation has led many to call it a major leap forward in AI technology.
Key Features of Manus
- Cloud-Based Operation: Manus operates independently in the cloud, allowing tasks to continue even if the user disconnects their device. This supports uninterrupted progress on long-term projects.
- Web Interaction: Unlike many AI models, Manus actively browses the web, interacts with websites, and displays its workflow live, enabling users to see how the AI gathers and processes information.
- Personalized Results: Manus learns from user interactions to provide tailored results. Over time, it adapts to user preferences, improving the relevance and quality of its responses.
- Data Collection: The AI can access various platforms, including X (formerly Twitter) and Telegram, to collect and process data. It can manage multiple screens simultaneously, as demonstrated in its official video.
- Versatile Output: Manus generates detailed reports, interactive presentations, and even code-based outputs such as data visualizations and spreadsheets, going beyond basic text generation.
How to Use Manus AI
Manus functions similarly to AI chatbots like ChatGPT but offers more autonomy. Users simply input a task, such as “Create a 7-day travel itinerary to Bali within a budget”, and Manus begins researching, gathering data, and structuring a response. The AI compiles all relevant information and presents a complete itinerary with links, maps, and travel suggestions. The AI continues working in the cloud if the user disconnects, notifying them upon completion.
Availability and Future Plans
Currently, Manus is accessible through an invitation-only web preview. Monica has not announced a public release date but has suggested a formal rollout may be imminent. The company plans to open-source the model in the coming months, which could facilitate rapid improvements and widespread adoption of the technology.
The Future of Artificial Intelligence
AI-powered browsers and agents are becoming a central focus for tech companies, and Manus is at the forefront. Its capabilities in advanced web research, complex output creation, and task automation represent a shift towards AI-driven productivity tools. The excitement surrounding Manus suggests that AI innovation, especially in China, is accelerating. As AI systems continue to advance, competition among leading companies such as OpenAI, Google, and Monica is likely to intensify.
