Amazon is overhauling its AI strategy and scaling back most of its in-house Nova models, according to Business Insider. The cuts affect the flagship Nova Premier and Omni models, the Reel video model, and the Canvas image generator. These models will remain online in 'keep the lights on' mode for existing customers but are no longer actively developed. The pullback follows layoffs in the AGI division and the closure of the AGI Lab Amazon founded in 2024 after acquiring Adept. Amazon first unveiled the Nova models in December 2024. Amazon isn't exiting the AI race, though. Resources now flow to the Frontier Model Research group under Pieter Abbeel, who joined through the acquisition of robotics startup Covariant. A new foundation model is due at the re:Invent conference this fall. A spokesperson told BI that AI models remain one of Amazon's most important projects. The company is also one of the biggest backers of Anthropic and OpenAI, where investments could top $100 billion.

Amazon's decision to scale back its Nova models reflects a strategic shift toward investing in the Frontier Model Research group. The group, led by Pieter Abbeel, is set to unveil a new foundation model at the re:Invent conference this fall. The move follows the closure of the AGI Lab and layoffs in the AGI division, signaling a reallocation of resources from existing models to new research initiatives. The company continues to emphasize its commitment to AI development, stating that AI models remain a top priority. Amazon's backing of Anthropic and OpenAI also underscores its ongoing engagement in the broader AI ecosystem.

The changes come after Amazon acquired Adept in 2024 and established the AGI Lab, which later closed. The company first introduced the Nova models in December 2024, but is now refocusing its efforts on the Frontier Model Research group. Amazon's spokesperson confirmed that AI models remain a critical project for the company, despite the scaling back of existing models. The company's investments in Anthropic and OpenAI highlight its continued involvement in AI innovation.

Source: thedecoder