Foundation Model

What it is

A foundation model is a large AI model trained on broad data that can be adapted for many different tasks. Rather than training a separate model for each task, you train one large model and then fine-tune or prompt it for specific applications. GPT-4, Claude, and Llama are foundation models.

Why it matters

Foundation models changed how AI is developed. Previously, each AI application needed its own specialised training. Now, a single foundation model can power chatbots, code assistants, writing tools, and more. This is why AI capabilities have expanded so rapidly—many applications share the same underlying model.