Microsoft’s launch of the WizardLM-2 AI model encountered an unexpected obstacle as the tech giant promptly withdrew it from public access mere hours after its release. The successor to the acclaimed WizardLM AI model was unceremoniously removed from GitHub and HuggingFace platforms, resulting in 404 error links and leaving a noticeable absence in Microsoft’s official collections. In a statement issued by the developers, regret was expressed, accompanied by an acknowledgment of their oversight in neglecting toxicity testing during the model’s release process. They assured the community of swift action, pledging to conduct the necessary tests promptly before re-releasing the model to ensure compliance with ethical standards.
The nature of the now-deleted models sparked questions, with WizardLM-2’s developers clarifying that the omission was due to forgetfulness rather than a deliberate attempt to bypass scrutiny. The revelation that the research group is based in Beijing, China, added a layer of context to the incident, raising eyebrows and prompting further scrutiny. Despite the removal, remnants of the model persist online, with some users claiming to have downloaded and reuploaded the files. Concerns regarding potential risks associated with these unofficial versions linger, prompting heightened scrutiny of Microsoft’s forthcoming toxicity tests to ensure compliance with ethical standards and mitigate any potential harm to users.
Hugging Face and its CEO, Clément Delangue, expressed disappointment over the removal, emphasizing the significant impact of WizardLM’s open-source models on their platform. They are actively seeking a resolution with Microsoft to address community needs and restore confidence in the platform. As the saga unfolds, attention turns to Microsoft’s commitment to responsible AI practices, especially in light of the withdrawal of WizardLM-2. While the company declined to comment directly on the incident, the release of its updated Responsible AI Standard General Requirements underscores its dedication to ethical AI development. These standards emphasize the need to mitigate biases and disparities in AI outputs, reaffirming Microsoft’s commitment to fostering a responsible and transparent AI ecosystem.
