OpenAI recently introduced two new large language models (LLMs), gpt-oss-120B and gpt-oss-20B. This marks the company’s first open-source release of cutting-edge language models since 2019, utilizing the Apache 2.0 license. Despite the achievement of substantial technical benchmarks, the initial reactions from the AI developer community have been mixed.
Previously, OpenAI’s models during the ChatGPT era were proprietary, necessitating payment for access and offering limited customization. The new gpt-oss models, however, allow for extensive use on various hardware setups, from small enterprises to personal computers.
The community has started evaluating these models, producing a range of feedback. While some users express excitement over their capabilities, others have noted significant constraints compared to similar offerings from Chinese startups, which are also licensed under Apache 2.0. Benchmarks indicate that while gpt-oss-120B outperforms most American models, it still lags behind leading Chinese models like DeepSeek R1.
Critics have highlighted that although the gpt-oss models excel in areas such as math and coding, they appear to struggle with creative tasks, raising concerns about their practical applicability. Some evaluations showed further issues, such as low compliance in generating user content and a lack of nuanced understanding in certain contexts.
Despite the critiques, others commend the release and its implications for open-source AI in the U.S. Some experts believe it reflects a significant return to competitive open-source development, while also cautioning that the sustainability and update trajectory for OpenAI may influence its long-term relevance in this space.
In summary, the reception to OpenAI’s new models is divided. Their licensing and accessibility bring fresh opportunities, but how effectively developers can leverage them will ultimately shape the legacy of this release.
Source: https://venturebeat.com/ai/the-initial-reactions-to-openais-landmark-open-source-gpt-oss-models-are-highly-varied-and-mixed/