Google's recent unveiling of Gemma, a new type of "open" AI model, marks a strategic pivot towards democratizing artificial intelligence. By offering these models for free, Google aims to empower developers and businesses and bolster its cloud division's attractiveness. Unlike fully open-source projects, Gemma models are made available with certain restrictions, balancing innovation with control.
Optimized for Google Cloud, these models come with $300 credits for new users, subtly encouraging the adoption of Google's cloud services. Despite the openness, Google keeps a tighter leash on its premier Gemini models, highlighting a cautious approach to sharing its most advanced technologies.
Gemma's release, set against the backdrop of similar moves by Meta and others, underscores the tech industry's shift towards more collaborative and accessible AI development. While smaller in scale compared to competitors' offerings, Gemma's introduction is a step towards fostering a more inclusive AI ecosystem.
