OpenAI launches new open-source AI models

OpenAI returns to its roots by releasing new open-weight AI models under a permissive license.

OpenAI embraces open source with new AI models

OpenAI has announced the launch of two new open-weight language models, gpt-oss-120b and gpt-oss-20b. This marks the first time in six years that the company has made its AI model weights available to the public. Released under the Apache 2.0 license, these models allow developers full access to download, run, and modify the software. This move represents a significant shift from OpenAI's recent focus on proprietary models, which were heavily supported by Microsoft investments and API deals. Despite not releasing the underlying training data due to legal and safety concerns, the models aim to empower users, especially in emerging markets. Users can download them from platforms like Hugging Face and GitHub, ensuring a more collaborative development environment.

OpenAI's step back into open-source development reflects a growing recognition of the benefits of community-driven innovation. By providing access to gpt-oss-120b and gpt-oss-20b, OpenAI is not just catering to developers but responding to competition from other players in the AI space. The potential impact on innovation could be significant, as more developers experiment and create new applications using these models. However, the reported issues with hallucinations demand caution. Balancing openness with quality control will be crucial as OpenAI navigates this new chapter.

Highlights

The release of these models signals a possible shift in how AI can be developed and shared.