Meta accused of "transparent deception" in AI practices with Whitepaper reveal
Metas Open Source AI Claims Face Question Marks After Linux Foundation Research Paper
Facebook parent company, Meta, is facing scrutiny following its sponsorship of a research paper on open source AI solutions by the Linux Foundation, with critics accusing the tech giant of "open washing."
The study, published this month, underscored the cost-effectiveness of open source AI systems for businesses of all sizes, particularly small enterprises. Notably, the research found that organizations employing closed source AI models could expect to spend approximately three and a half times more on software in comparison to open source alternatives.
The latest in a series of studies extolling the benefits of open source AI, a survey from IBM and Morning Consult in January revealed that over half of enterprises utilizing open source AI tools are more likely to reap a positive return on investment (ROI). Furthermore, two-in-five respondents yet to adopt open source AI solutions expressed plans to integrate these tools into their AI projects within the next year.
Meta's association with the Linux Foundation study has generated controversy due to suggestions that it's serving as a marketing tool for the company's 'Llama' AI models. OpenUK CEO Amanda Brock expressed concerns that these models do not meet the requirements to be classified as genuinely 'open source,' as neither Meta nor the study have acknowledged this fact.
"Llama isn't 'open source' - no matter the definition used for open source," Brock asserted. She added that the OSI's Open Source Software Definition (OSD) was not met by Llama, as it incorporates a commercial restriction in its licensing, which violates the free flow central to open source licensing and introduces friction.
The controversy surrounding Meta's open source claims centers on licensing terms that impose limitations on users during certain commercial phases. While Meta's Llama models are technically open access, users are subject to constraints in some circumstances. This issue has prompted repeated pushback from industry stakeholders, particularly with regards to what constitutes 'open source.'
Earlier this year, the Open Source Initiative reprimanded Meta for falsely promoting Llama as open source. Despite Meta's work with Llama models marking a step forward in open source awareness, Brock emphasized that there is still a long way to go before "open washing" can be effectively addressed within the tech industry.
"With Meta's website listing a key takeaway of their report as 'Linux Foundation Research shows how open source AI models, like Llama, are driving economic growth, innovation and competition by making crucial tech solutions more accessible', it's hardly surprising that the OSI is up in arms and accusing the Linux Foundation of supporting open washing," Brock said.
The impact of open washing extends beyond the open source issue, with regulators like the EU using the term open source as the basis for exceptions to liability in AI and the standards expected in AI development.
Other industry developers have also come under fire for their handling of open source standards in recent years. In March 2024, Databricks launched its own large language model, DBRX, which was criticized for not meeting open source standards due to the inclusion of an external acceptable use policy and a license operating outside the purview of the OSI framework.
In conclusion, Meta's open source claims for Llama are marred by a mix of licensing issues, legal and ethical disputes, and strategic business concerns. This has fueled skepticism about Meta's commitment to open source values and its true intentions in promoting Llama models.
- Amidst allegations of "open washing," Meta's sponsorship of a Linux Foundation study on open source AI solutions has sparked debate over the legitimacy of its 'Llama' AI models, with critics arguing that they do not meet the criteria for being classified as genuinely open source.
- The cybersecurity industry is grappling with concerns related to Meta's open source practices, as the use of open source AI tools like Llama can have far-reaching implications, especially in the realm of business and finance, where open source solutions are cost-effective and foster innovation.
- The tech industry, including key players like Meta, faces scrutiny over claims of open sourcing their AI offerings, as questions arise around the intentions behind such moves and whether they comply with the principles of technology, artificial intelligence, and open source licensing.
