In a major move for the Artificial Intelligence (AI) sector, Meta has launched Llama 3.1, the most advanced open source AI model, providing support to Indian startups to tackle data quality issues. Launched on 23 July 2024, Llama 3.1 features a staggering 405 billion parameters and was trained on 15 trillion tokens using state-of-the-art Nvidia GPUs. The model is ready to compete with leading AI systems such as GPT-4.0 and Claude 3.5 Sonnet.
Supporting Indian startups
Meta’s efforts will be a major boon for Indian AI startups, which face challenges around data quality, especially in local languages. The company aims to help them by providing synthetic data generation tools that cater to the unique linguistic nuances of languages like Hindi, Kannada and Marathi. “We see Llama as a versatile base model that companies like Sarvam and developers can customize to capture linguistic and cultural complexities,” said Ragavan Srinivasan, vice president of product management at Meta.
Llama 3.1 Features
The Llama 3.1 model introduces several advanced features designed to enhance its utility.
Customizable agents: Developers can create bespoke agents and explore new types of agent behavior. Referencing system: A new referencing system is built in to generate more accurate responses. Security tools: Enhanced security and safety measures are integrated to protect user interactions. Feedback features: The Llama Stack API features a feedback mechanism to drive improvements and support third-party projects that use the Llama model.
Meta’s blog post highlighted the company’s commitment to enabling developers and partners to get the most out of Llama 3.1, emphasizing that the model is not just a product, but a platform for creating customized solutions.
Extended Language Options
In addition to Llama 3.1, Meta has also expanded its AI capabilities across its applications. The company recently expanded language support for its AI chatbot, Meta AI, to now support Hindi and Hindi Romanization, in addition to languages such as French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish. The update aims to improve accessibility and user engagement in 22 countries, including new additions such as Argentina, Chile, and Cameroon.
Meta’s Wide-ranging Initiatives
Earlier this month, Meta extended its verification service to Facebook and Instagram users, following its launch on WhatsApp. Meta Verified is a subscription service designed to boost brand trust through a “blue checkmark,” offering features such as enhanced account support, impersonation prevention, and increased visibility.
India remains a key market for Meta, with its suite of apps – Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram – boasting a user base of 378 million, 478 million and 362 million respectively, making India the largest market for Meta’s digital platforms.
