Mark Zuckerberg's Vision: Open-Source AI and Meta's Future

Mark Zuckerberg says his goal for the next decade is to build open-source platforms and have them win

This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now. Have an account? Log in. "Are they going to be the closed integrated model that Apple has always done? Which, again, there are multiple good ways to build things," he said. "In the PC era, Windows with the open ecosystem was the leader." The closed model is often more secure because the software's source code is not publicly available. Meanwhile, an open-source model can help a technology develop more quickly and become more democratic because the source code is available to the general public, who can modify and redistribute it. "Part of my goal for the next 10-15 years, the next generation of platforms, is to build the next generation of open platforms and have the open platforms win," Zuckerberg said. "I think that's going to lead to a much more vibrant tech industry." Zuck has already made strides in that direction. In 2023, Meta released Llama 2, a (mostly) open-source AI model that quickly became a hit among the tech community. It's not without risks, though. Bad actors can co-opt open-source models. Meta's Llama 2 could give users detailed instructions on how to make anthrax, something Zuckerberg faced some heat for on Capitol Hill. He argued that similar information can be found elsewhere, too. In July, Zuckerberg received props across the tech industry when Meta released the open-source Llama 3.1, which some industry execs called an "incredible gift" at the time.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg discloses his goal for upcoming decade, says he wants to build...

Mark Zuckerberg advocates for open-source technology, aiming to foster innovation and competition in the tech industry. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently shared his vision for the future of technology during a live recording of the "Acquired" podcast in San Francisco. He emphasized the importance of open-source models in the ongoing competition within the tech industry. According to Zuckerberg, the debate between open and closed models is more than just a business strategy; it's an ideological battle that could shape the future of how technology is developed and used. Zuckerberg pointed out that companies like Apple have traditionally followed a closed model, integrating their software and hardware in a way that keeps their source code private. While this approach can enhance security, it limits how quickly innovation can occur. In contrast, he highlighted the success of open ecosystems, like those seen during the PC era with Windows, where a more open model allowed for greater collaboration and faster advancement. His long-term goal is ambitious: over the next 10 to 15 years, Zuckerberg aims to champion the development of open platforms and hopes they will ultimately dominate the tech landscape. He believes that fostering open-source technologies will not only promote innovation but also create a more vibrant and democratic tech industry where anyone can contribute. Meta has already made significant moves in this direction. In 2023, the company launched Llama 2, an open-source AI model that quickly gained traction in the tech community. This was seen as a positive step, allowing developers and researchers to modify and build upon the model. However, open-source technology is not without its challenges. Zuckerberg acknowledged the potential risks, such as misuse by bad actors. For example, Llama 2 has faced criticism for providing access to sensitive information, though Zuckerberg defended the model by saying similar information is available elsewhere. In July, Meta built on this momentum by releasing Llama 3.1, another open-source model that was praised across the tech industry. Many executives described it as an "incredible gift," highlighting the potential benefits of open-source innovation. Overall, Zuckerberg's commitment to open-source technology reflects a broader shift in the industry, aiming to create more collaborative and accessible tools for everyone.