The role of the development of artificial intelligence in geopolitics usually means competition between the United States and China. While reports are inconclusive about which country will ultimately win (if this is the right term), there is a glaring shortcoming in the United States that China will largely avoid. In 2017 China accounted for 48% of global AI venture capital while the US only accounted for 38%. But only two years later the trend reversed, possibly because of headwinds from the trade war. Neither is it talent acquisition and a brain drain.

AI has moved into the art world. Two paintings up for auction in New York highlight a growing interest in artificial intelligence-created works – a technique that could transform how art is made and viewed but is also stirring up passionate debate. Last year, the art world was stunned when an AI painting sold for US$432,500, and auctioneers are keen to further test demand for computer-generated works. "Art is a true reflection of what our society, what our environment responds to," said Max Moore of Sotheby's. Sotheby's will put two paintings by the French art collective Obvious up for sale this week, including "Le Baron De Belamy."

Have you ever been worried about a pet that went missing in a big city? The chances of finding that pet are daunting, to say the least. Now, think of a society where uploading a single photo could help identify your dog. Recently, a private Chinese company launched a so-called "dog-face recognition" platform offering those possibilities, CGTN.com reported. As every human has distinct fingerprints, every dog has unique identifiable features on their noses.

Lurking behind the Trump administration's trade conflict with China lies an abiding fear that the United States could be losing its advantage in the global technology race. In US policymaking circles more broadly, China's "Made in China 2025" policy – intended to ensure Chinese dominance in cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence (AI), aeronautics, and other frontier sectors – is viewed not just as an economic challenge, but as a geopolitical threat. Everything from US telecommunications infrastructure and intellectual property to America's military position in East Asia are considered to be at risk. The fact that technology is driving geopolitical tensions runs against the predictions of many scholars and policymakers. As recently as the mid-2000s, some suspected that geography would no longer play a meaningful role in the functioning of global markets.