Large language models (LLMs) have quickly become an essential basis for many intelligent, information technology applications, the potential of which is far from exhausted and is developing rapidly. LLMs not only support typical language processing applications, such as automatic dictation and translation systems, but also allow the analysis and semantic interpretation of a wide variety of data types, including video, audio and radar. They have thus become a driver, if not the epitome (e.g., in the form of ChatGPT) of artificial intelligence. With large-scale language models, technology has emerged to revolutionize not only human-machine interaction in the form of text, but also redefines many industrial and medical applications such as automatic image annotation and visual scene understanding. However, their widespread adoption requires overcoming ethical, technical and societal challenges to ensure their responsible and equitable use.
This position paper begins by explaining the technical foundations and applications of LLMs and looks at the opportunities and challenges for industry, society and education that arise in connection with these models. It also addresses the importance of agile regulation, education at schools and universities, and sustainable research in this area. Finally, technical hurdles, especially for smaller companies and research institutions, as well as problematic aspects of this technology are identified.
