We Must Seize the Means of Compute (thompson2026.com)

A recent commentary emphasizes the need for a shift from centralized AI models housed in data centers to local, user-controlled computing. The author critiques the "Cloud AI" model for its significant energy consumption, environmental impact, and susceptibility to regulation and censorship, arguing that reliance on large corporations reduces individual agency and creativity. Centralized models often compromise on quality due to imposed safety measures, limiting their usefulness and infringing on user freedom. The proposed solution advocates for democratizing AI by enabling models that can run efficiently on consumer hardware, such as laptops, thereby promoting autonomy and privacy. The author envisions a future where powerful AI functionalities come in a compact form—akin to a USB stick—representing accessible knowledge and expertise. This shift toward "sovereign computing" not only champions individual liberty but also potentially circumvents the control of large entities and government oversight, pushing for a landscape where AI serves as a true public resource rather than a monopolized service.