Inside Pinterest's efforts to replace expensive AI with open-source models

Pinterest uses a multimodal generative AI strategy to lower computing costs. Their approach includes OpenAI's and Alibaba's large language models.

Inside Pinterest's efforts to replace expensive AI with open-source models

TL;DR

  • Pinterest uses a "model-agnostic" approach, blending proprietary, closed-source (OpenAI, Anthropic), and open-source (Alibaba) AI models.
  • This strategy aims to reduce AI computing costs, with Pinterest reporting an estimated 90% cost reduction compared to relying solely on proprietary models.
  • Investments in cloud infrastructure and hiring AI/ML expertise, including engineers like Matthias Zenger and Mirjam Wattenhofer, support this approach.
  • New AI-enabled features include auto-collages for advertisers and a voice-enabled AI feature for user queries, both utilizing a mix of AI models.
  • Pinterest plans to continue experimenting with AI models, prioritizing personalization with its own, cost-effectiveness with open-source, and performance with closed-source models.