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ModelsIntermediate2021

Foundation Model

Foundation Model

A foundation model is a large, general-purpose AI model that can be adapted for many different tasks.

Explained simply

A foundation model is a large, general-purpose AI model that can be adapted for many different tasks.

1Large general model
2Adapt or prompt
3Many applications
4Different tasks

At a glance

Category
Models
Difficulty
Intermediate
Introduced
2021

Real example

A single foundation model can be adapted for chat, summarisation, coding and document analysis.

Why it matters

It gives you a clear way to understand where this idea fits in AI and how it affects the tools you use.

Timeline

Origins

The ideas behind Foundation Model begin developing.

2021

Foundation Model becomes a recognised term or technique.

Wider use

Research and practical applications increase.

Modern AI

Foundation Model becomes connected to newer AI systems and products.

Today

Foundation Model remains relevant in the models area of AI.

Dates for broad concepts may describe the period when the idea emerged or became widely used, rather than one exact invention date.

Learn next

Simple infographic

A quick visual way to understand Foundation Model.

1Large general model
2Adapt or prompt
3Many applications
4Different tasks
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