The open-source nature of Apertus encourages the development of new applications, fosters community engagement, and promotes a culture of transparency and accountability in AI development.

Apache license

As a fully open source large language model, Apertus is released under the Apache license, ensuring that the LLM is free to use, modify, and distribute with minimal restrictions. This allows developers and researchers across the globe to contribute to the project, extend its capabilities, or adapt it for their specific needs without facing legal barriers.

The Apache License 2.0 is a permissive open-source software license that allows users to freely use, modify, and distribute the software for any purpose, including commercial use, with minimal restrictions. It is known for its flexibility and is widely used in the open-source community due to its simplicity and clarity. Under this license, users are given the right to use, modify, and distribute the software or any derivative works, provided they include a copy of the license and any notices that apply.

The source code, model weights, and all other relevant material is available allows for use in diverse non-commercial and commercial settings. For enterprise contexts, particularly in high-impact pioneering applications, the Swiss AI Initiative offers partnership options that allow science-focused industry contribution and collaboration.

These licenses are designed to support the sustainability of the project and encourage ethical and responsible deployment, ensuring that the model benefits society as a whole.

Further questions are explored in the FAQ

The core philosophy of Apertus is rooted in transparency, accessibility, and community-driven development. At its foundation is the commitment to open source, with the explicit goal of fostering collaboration, innovation, and the widespread adoption of advanced artificial intelligence technologies in a responsible manner.

The legal framework of the Apertus project aims to protect the project’s integrity while encouraging widespread adoption and innovation. For those seeking to use Apertus in applications involving sensitive information or high stakes, we can offer guidance on how ensure alignment with European Union’s AI Act, General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Swiss Data Protection Law, and other relevant international standards, ensuring that the use of the model respects privacy and security standards.

For current legal guidance, visit our Documentation home page.