Llama 2 License Reddit

Llama 2's License: Open Source or Not?

Key Points:

• Meta's Llama 2 license is not OSI-approved open source.
• The license allows for use, distribution, and modification of the model.
• Commercial use is permitted, but certain restrictions apply.

Open Source Definition and Llama 2's License

The Open Source Initiative (OSI) defines open source software as "software that can be freely used, modified, and shared by anyone." Llama 2's license does not fully meet this definition because it:

1. Restricts use in training other language models: The license prohibits using Llama 2 to train other language models, which is a common practice in AI research.
2. Requires a special license for large-scale applications: Organizations with over 700 million monthly active users must obtain a separate license from Meta to use Llama 2.

Allowed Uses Under the License

Despite these restrictions, the license allows for a wide range of uses, including:

• Use and distribution: Organizations can use and distribute Llama 2 freely for non-commercial purposes.
• Modification: Researchers and developers can modify Llama 2 to create new models or applications.
• Commercial use: Llama 2 can be used in commercial products or services, provided the restrictions on use in training other models and large-scale applications are met.

Conclusion

While Llama 2's license is not OSI-approved open source, it provides a permissive framework for non-commercial and commercial use of the model. The restrictions on use in training other models and large-scale applications should be carefully considered before using Llama 2 in certain scenarios.