Meta launches AI model for commercial use, disrupting nascent market

Meta is set to launch Llama, an open-source AI model, as a free alternative to pricier models from OpenAI and Google. The new Llama 2 will be offered through Microsoft’s Azure cloud service and also be available for direct download and via Amazon Web Services. (Reuters)

Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg said, “Open source drives innovation because it enables many more developers to build with new technology.” Llama is trained on 40% more data than previous versions and could challenge the dominance of closed-source models. (Reuters)

Amjad Masad, CEO of Replit, stated that any improvements in open-source models threaten the market share of closed-source ones due to their affordability and reduced dependency. Competitors such as Google and Amazon are also expanding their range of AI models for business customers. (Reuters)

Despite partnering with OpenAI, Microsoft supports the use of Llama to provide developers with more choices. A Microsoft spokesperson believes this will maintain the company’s position as a leading cloud platform for AI work. (Reuters)

Meta hopes that the release of Llama will create a flourishing open-source ecosystem, while hindering rivals’ plans to profit from proprietary technology. Meta anticipates benefiting from the advancements and products developed by the AI community. (Reuters)

Meta’s CEO Zuckerberg emphasized the importance of standardizing basic tools and benefiting from industry-wide improvements. The company aims to reduce infrastructure costs, maximize the creation of innovative tools, and increase user engagement. (Reuters)

However, releasing Llama poses risks as it facilitates the creation of products without proper safety controls. Stanford researchers previously took down a chatbot because it generated inappropriate content. Meta believes public releases help identify and address safety concerns. (Reuters)

Meta has implemented an “acceptable use” policy for commercial Llama to restrict certain use cases, such as violence, terrorism, and child exploitation. (Reuters)

Reporting by Katie Paul; Additional reporting by Jeffrey Dastin, Krystal Hu, and Yuvraj Malik; Editing by Kenneth Li, Chizu Nomiyama, and David Holmes. (Reuters)