Freepik has launched F Lite, an 'open' AI image generator trained exclusively on licensed data. This move addresses growing concerns around copyright and ethical AI training practices. Unlike cloud-based generators, F Lite runs locally, requiring significant hardware resources, including a robust GPU and substantial RAM, to operate effectively.
The decision to train F Lite on licensed data aims to provide users with a legally sound alternative for generating images. This approach could appeal to professionals and businesses wary of the legal risks associated with AI models trained on potentially copyrighted material. By offering a locally hosted solution, Freepik also gives users greater control over their data and creative process.
However, the hardware demands of F Lite may limit its accessibility to users with high-end computing setups. The success of F Lite will likely depend on its image quality, speed, and the willingness of users to invest in the necessary hardware. It also remains to be seen whether other AI image generation companies will follow suit in focusing on licensed datasets.