IBM releases open-source AI models and partners with Saudi Arabia

The main goal of this initiative is to aid software developers in accelerating the coding process by offering tools that simplify and expedite completion.

IBM has revealed its plans to introduce a suite of AI models as open-source software and extend support to Saudi Arabia in training an AI system in Arabic. Diverging from rivals like Microsoft, which levy charges for their AI models, IBM offers unrestricted access to its ‘Granite’ AI models, empowering companies to tailor them to their needs. These models are geared towards aiding software developers in expediting the coding process. IBM generates revenue by providing a paid tool, Watsonx, facilitating the operation of customized models within data centers.

IBM’s strategy revolves around capitalizing on the utilization of AI models by customers, irrespective of their source or data center location. Arvind Krishna, IBM’s CEO, underscored the company’s belief in the early potential of generative AI and the advantages of competition for consumers. He also stressed the importance of prioritizing safety and responsibility in AI development.

Furthermore, IBM has announced a collaboration with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority to train its ‘ALLaM’ Arabic language model using Watsonx. This initiative aims to bolster IBM’s AI capabilities by enabling the understanding of various Arabic dialects.