Google LaMDA large language model
LaMDA (Language Model for Dialogue Applications) is a large language model developed by Google to help develop chatbots.
The first version of LaMDA was released in May 2021, and the second a year later in May 2022.
System databank
Operator: Alphabet/Google
Developer: Alphabet/Google
Country: USA
Sector: Technology
Purpose: Optimise language models for dialogue
Technology: Large language model; Neural network; NLP/text analysis
Issue: Accuracy/reliability; Anthropomorphism
Transparency: Governance; Black box
Risks and harms
LaMDA 'sentience'
Google engineer Blake Lemoine tried to convince fellow Google employees that LaMDA was sentient, resulting in Google suspending and firing him.
Google Bard inaccuracies
In February 2023, Google launched Bard, a chatbot based on LaMDA. The launch was seen to flop as it shared inaccurate information in a promotional video, reinforcing views that Google is lagging Microsoft and Open AI in this area.
Page info
Type: System
Published: January 2023
Last updated: February 2023