Lina Khan, Chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), has expressed her endorsement of open AI models, suggesting they could foster more competition within the tech sector. During a presentation at an event organized by startup incubator Y Combinator in San Francisco, Khan emphasized that open-weight models have the potential to “liberate startups from the unpredictable choices of closed developers and cloud service providers.”
Effects on the AI Sector
Open AI models, designed to be modifiable with few limitations, are viewed as a means to make advanced AI technologies more accessible. This is in stark contrast to closed models dominated by a few major tech firms. Khan posits that open-weight models can mitigate the risks of monopolistic control, subsequently encouraging a more vibrant and competitive marketplace.
In July 2023, A Google researcher reportedly wrote a memo, questioning the company’s AI prospects and claiming that it has “no moat” in the field. At the center of the argument was Google and indeed other closed Big Tech AI developers will not be able to compete with open source models. While Google DeepMind chief Demis Hassabis rubbished the memo, it is clear that open AI has potential.
Antitrust Investigations on Microsoft and OpenAI
While the FTC is positive about open AI, the regulator is taking a stricter approach with tech company. In June, the FTC launched an inquiry into possible antitrust violations by Microsoft and OpenAI. The primary concern is whether the business conduct of these organizations could impede competition and suppress innovation.
Khan’s comments are in line with the Biden administration’s overarching initiative to provide guidance on the application and safety of open-weight AI models. Various strategies are being evaluated by the administration to ensure these models support a competitive market environment.
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 3:29 pm CET