Open Source vs. Closed Source AI: Understanding the Debate

The debate between open and closed source AI reflects our digital values: Do we prioritize transparency and accessibility, or security and sustainable development?

Kabir

17 Mar 2025 — 10 min read

In today's world, artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly prominent in our everyday lives. From the voice assistants on our phones to the recommendation systems on streaming platforms, AI shapes our digital experiences in countless ways. Behind these technologies lies an important distinction: whether the AI systems are "open source" or "closed source." This difference might seem technical at first glance, but it has profound implications for society, innovation, and our digital future.

What Does "Open Source" and "Closed Source" Actually Mean?

Before diving into the debate, let's clarify what these terms actually mean:

Open Source AI refers to AI systems where the underlying code and models are freely available for anyone to view, use, modify, and distribute. Think of it like a recipe that's publicly shared – anyone can see how it's made, adjust it to their taste, and share their improvements with others.

Closed Source AI refers to AI systems where the code, algorithms, and models are proprietary and kept private by the companies that develop them. This is more like a secret recipe for a popular soda – you can enjoy the drink, but you can't see exactly how it's made.

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