Llion Jones—the Welsh computer scientist who helped create the groundbreaking Transformer architecture—believes the UK should rethink its approach to artificial intelligence. Jones, originally from Bangor and Abergynolwyn and now based in Tokyo, co-authored the famous 2017 paper “Attention Is All You Need,” which laid the foundation for modern generative AI systems like ChatGPT.
As the CTO and co-founder of Sakana AI, Jones says the UK and Wales shouldn’t try to compete directly with major AI giants in the US and China. According to him, the “hyper-scalers” are too far ahead in terms of computing power and investment.
Instead, he encourages the UK to take a more innovative path by supporting unique and speculative AI research. His company focuses on future-oriented AI projects rather than commercializing the current wave of large language models. He believes Wales could foster a similar environment by giving researchers and companies more freedom to explore bold ideas.
Jones also noted a growing problem with today’s AI chatbots: they tend to be overly agreeable. In his words, they have become “sycophantic,” often telling users what they want to hear rather than providing accurate corrections. He argues that the next evolution of AI must include systems that can challenge and correct users appropriately.
AI Opportunities and Challenges for Wales
The UK government is already working to encourage AI adoption among businesses. During a Google-hosted event in Cardiff, Business Secretary Peter Kyle emphasized that AI could dramatically boost productivity by automating routine tasks. He stated that even a 1% productivity increase in small businesses could generate £240 billion in economic growth.
Wales has also introduced AI growth zones and launched the AI Plan for Wales, aiming to improve public services, enhance skills, and support innovation.
However, infrastructure remains a major barrier. Many parts of mid Wales lack the modern electricity grid needed to support large-scale data centres or advanced AI facilities. Stuart George of Green GEN Cymru warned that without upgraded grid infrastructure, Wales risks missing out on future AI development opportunities. Despite protests against new pylons, he argues that modernizing the grid is essential for electric vehicles, clean energy, business expansion, and long-term technological growth.
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