Show HN: Ext-Infer – Native LLM Inference and Embeddings for PHP (infer.displace.tech)

A new PHP extension called ext-infer enables native inference of large language models (LLMs) and embeddings directly within PHP applications. Built for PHP 8.3 and above, this extension leverages the power of the llama.cpp library, allowing developers to run LLM inference seamlessly without the need for external Python scripts or API calls. The design emphasizes operational efficiency by minimizing latency and eliminating the complexities of managing sidecar processes or inference servers. Users can interact with LLMs using a fluent API that integrates naturally into PHP, making the functionality as straightforward as calling built-in functions. This innovation is significant for the AI/ML community as it enhances the accessibility of advanced LLM capabilities within PHP, a language widely used in web development. By offering features like native semantic search and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) pipelines, ext-infer empowers developers to create more responsive, intelligent applications without the usual overhead. The extension is constructed in Rust, focusing on threading models, performance tuning, and easy installation, further ensuring that PHP developers can harness cutting-edge AI tools efficiently and effectively.