 "Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently approved Llama's use in government projects in the US, a collaboration that may soon be mirrored in countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and now, the UK. Image Credit: AFP")
Meta is making a strategic move to weave its Llama AI model into the UK’s public health infrastructure. The tech giant has been lobbying to show the benefits of incorporating its artificial intelligence capabilities into the country’s health services.
As part of this push, Meta recently held a European hackathon, gathering over 200 developers to brainstorm ways Llama AI could enhance healthcare. The company awarded funding to standout ideas, including solutions to cut down on wait times in Britain’s A&E departments.
The initiative has caught the attention of government officials, with the UK’s AI minister, Feryal Clark, acknowledging the potential benefits. She highlighted the possibility of adopting AI models like Meta’s to support critical health missions, emphasising the government’s openness to such tech integrations.
This comes on the heels of Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s recent approval of Llama’s use in government projects in the US, a collaboration that may soon be mirrored in countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and now, the UK.
What’s in it for Meta?
Despite the fact that Britain’s use of Llama AI would not directly generate profit for Meta, there’s a long-term strategy in play. Nick Clegg, Meta’s president of global affairs and former UK deputy prime minister, explained that it’s about fostering a thriving ecosystem.
He suggested that if Llama-based innovations become widespread, it would be easier for Meta to integrate these advancements into their own products. The open-source nature of Llama, which has already led to nearly 350 million downloads, continues to drive this wide-scale adoption.
Downplaying fears of AI
Clegg has been vocal in addressing concerns about AI’s potential overreach. He downplayed fears of AI taking over society in a mocking tone, suggesting that the technology is currently much more rudimentary than people imagine.
Still, sceptics argue that even if AI seems harmless now, it’s the long-term consequences that are worrying. The debate continues about whether AI models like Llama could eventually wield too much influence, especially when integrated into critical sectors like healthcare.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsUK’s AI Ministry’s take on this
The UK government appears cautiously optimistic. While the AI minister, Feryal Clark, acknowledged the substantial risks that come with AI, she stressed the importance of balanced regulation.
The focus would be on fostering innovation while ensuring businesses are not overburdened by excessive restrictions. The challenge remains to harness AI’s potential to benefit public services like healthcare while keeping an eye on the ethical and practical implications. As Meta and the UK explore this partnership, the world watches to see how AI will reshape healthcare systems — and at what cost.