MBZUAI prepares to launch K2 Think, an open-source AI reasoning model

Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and technology group G42 are preparing to release K2 Think, described as the world’s ‘most advanced’ open-source reasoning model.

Eric Xing, President at MBZUAI, confirmed in a LinkedIn post that the university’s Institute of Foundation Models, working with G42, is preparing to launch K2 Think. The initiative has been endorsed by UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and supported by Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council.

K2 Think has been developed as an open-source reasoning model, designed to be leaner and more efficient than many larger models while maintaining or surpassing their performance.

MBZUAI is a graduate-level university focused on AI education and research. Its Institute of Foundation Models has collaborated with Abu Dhabi-based G42 on K2 Think, with the project positioned as part of the UAE’s strategy to grow its role in advanced AI research and development.

Xing says in his LinkedIn post: “As we prepare to launch K2 Think — the world’s most powerful open-source model for reasoning — I want to extend my deepest gratitude to HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his endorsement of the launch, and to him and His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed for their vision and unwavering support of MBZUAI. Their leadership has been instrumental in enabling frontier-class foundation models research and development at our Institute of Foundation Models and positioning Abu Dhabi as a global hub for AI innovation.”

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