The debut of Meta Platforms' latest AI model, Llama 3 was accompanied by a simultaneous update of Meta AI.
The chatbot assistant operates on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Messenger, and Ray-Ban's smart glasses. Chris Cox, Meta's Chief Product Officer has indicated to Bloomberg, Reuters, and CNBC that the previous generation Llama 2 has been downloaded over 170 billion times.
Biggest open-source model
Although Llama 2 is touted as open source, there are specific restrictions, such as the requirement of Meta's approval for companies with user bases exceeding 700 million to download it.
Experts have expressed concerns about the potential security risks posed by Llama, as an open-source Large Language Model (LLM). They caution that unethical actors could exploit it to develop functions that could pose a danger to humanity.
Amid the robust growth of the AI field, many major tech giants are investing heavily in developing AI-related products and services encompassing LLM development and computational infrastructure construction.
Meta has announced an expansion of its capital expenditure for 2024 to construct more AI data centers and is committed to developing AI models and application features. These measures are said to enhance content recommendations, improve advertising targeting, and strengthen the capabilities of its Mixed Reality (MR) wearable devices.
Cox pointed out that Llama 3 is poised to establish a fresh standard for LLM within the industry. He foreshadowed the ongoing development of various iterative versions in the forthcoming updates.
Additionally, he stressed that Meta's focus is no longer solely on attaining industry-leading models. The initial rollout of Llama 3 includes two smaller variants, featuring 8 billion and 70 billion parameters, respectively.
Versatile models
"A larger version with 400 billion parameters offering advanced inference capabilities can be expected down the line," added the Meta CPO. The model will be able to assist in formulating longer and more complex multi-step plans and generating content with text and images.
Notably, image recognition has been formally integrated into Llama 3 training to enhance the functionality of future smart glasses or extended reality (XR) devices. Cox claims the ultimate goal is to help users overcome challenges and make life easier, whether in work, creativity, or travel planning.
According to the press release, the updated Meta AI can answer questions, create animations, and generate images. Meta AI can also be used on the "meta.ai" website to perform tasks such as solving math problems and writing professional emails.
Reports indicate that the updated Meta AI will directly compete with ChatGPT from the Microsoft-backed OpenAI and Google's Gemini chatbots. The updated Meta AI will also expand to over ten markets outside the US, including Australia, Canada, Singapore, Nigeria, and Pakistan.
However, entry into the European Union market, which has stricter privacy regulations, will require more time to address related issues.
