Microsoft launches Small Language Model Phi-2: What are SLMs, how are they different to LLMs like ChatGPT?

In a groundbreaking move in the world of AI and LLMs (Large Language Models), Microsoft has introduced Phi-2, a compact or small language model (SLM). Positioned as an upgraded version of Phi-1.5, Phi-2 is currently accessible through the Azure AI Studio model catalogue. Microsoft asserts that this new model can surpass larger counterparts such as Llama-2, Mistral, and Gemini-2 in various generative AI benchmark tests. Phi-2, introduced earlier this week following an announcement by Satya Nadella at Ignite 2023, is the result of Microsoft’s research team’s efforts. The generative AI model is touted to possess attributes like “common sense,” “language understanding,” and “logical reasoning.” Microsoft claims that Phi-2 can even outperform models 25 times its size on specific tasks. Trained using “textbook-quality” data, including synthetic datasets, general knowledge, theory of mind, daily activities, and more, Phi-2 is a transformer-based model featuring capabilities such as a next-word prediction objective. Microsoft indicates that training Phi-2 is more straightforward and cost-effective compared to larger models like GPT-4, which reportedly takes around 90-100 days for training using tens of thousands of A100 Tensor Core GPUs. Phi-2’s capabilities extend beyond language processing, as it can solve complex mathematical equations and physics problems, as well as identify errors in student calculations. In benchmark tests covering commonsense reasoning, language understanding, math, and coding, Phi-2 has outperformed models like the 13B Llama-2 and 7B Mistral. Notably, it also surpasses the 70B Llama-2 LLM by a significant margin, and even outperforms the GoogleGemini Nano 2, a 3.25B model designed to run natively on Google Pixel 8 Pro. In the rapidly evolving field of natural language processing, small language models are emerging as powerful contenders, offering a range of benefits that cater to specific use cases and contextual needs, over the much more common LLMs or large language models. These advantages are reshaping the landscape of language processing technologies. Here are some key advantages of compact language models: Computational Efficiency: Small language models demand less computational power for both training and inference, making them a more feasible option for users with limited resources or on devices with lower computing capabilities. Swift Inference: Smaller models boast faster inference times, rendering them well-suited for real-time applications where low latency is paramount to success. Resource-Friendly: Compact language models, by design, utilize less memory, making them ideal for deployment on devices with constrained resources, such as smartphones or edge devices. Energy Efficient: Owing to their reduced size and complexity, small models consume less energy during both training and inference, catering to applications where energy efficiency is a critical concern. Reduced Training Time: Training smaller models is a time-efficient process compared to their larger counterparts, providing a significant advantage in scenarios where rapid model iteration and deployment are essential. Enhanced Interpretability: Smaller models are often more straightforward to interpret and understand. This is particularly crucial in applications where model interpretability and transparency are paramount, as seen in medical or legal contexts. Cost-Effective Solutions: The training and deployment of small models are less expensive in terms of both computational resources and time. This accessibility makes them a viable choice for individuals or organizations with budget constraints. Tailored for Specific Domains: In certain niche or domain-specific applications, a smaller model may prove sufficient and more suitable than a large, general-purpose language model. It is crucial to emphasize that the decision between small and large language models hinges on the specific requirements of each task. While large models excel in capturing intricate patterns in diverse data, small models are proving invaluable in scenarios where efficiency, speed, and resource constraints take precedence. (With inputs from agencies)