Frontier Model
The largest, most capable models at the leading edge of what AI can currently do.
Frontier models set the ceiling on what is possible and usually cost the most to run.
Frequently asked questions
What makes a model a frontier model?
Frontier models are the largest and most capable AI available at any given moment, sitting at the leading edge of what the technology can do. The label is relative, so today's frontier becomes ordinary as newer models arrive.
Should my business always use the most powerful frontier model?
Not necessarily, because frontier models usually cost the most and run slower. For routine tasks a smaller model is often faster and cheaper while doing the job just as well, so the frontier is worth paying for mainly on genuinely hard work.
Why do people care so much about frontier models?
They set the ceiling on what is currently possible, so they show where AI as a whole is headed. When a new frontier model raises the bar, capabilities tend to trickle down into cheaper, everyday tools over time.
New to all this? Start with what an AI agent really is, browse the full glossary, or explore the learning hub.
← Back to the glossary