Google has officially released the source code for the Transformer model, the breakthrough that reshaped artificial intelligence. First introduced in 2017, this architecture became the backbone of today’s top AI systems, including ChatGPT, Bard, and Claude. Now, anyone can access the exact code that sparked the generative AI boom.

Source code from landmark research is finally available

The Transformer model debuted in the paper “Attention Is All You Need.” While its concepts revolutionized AI, the original source code had never been publicly shared—until now. Google quietly published it on GitHub, offering a direct look at the model that changed the game.

Why this source code release matters

For developers, researchers, and students, this is a major moment. The release provides a clean starting point to understand how attention-based models replaced older approaches. Furthermore, it offers insight into the simple, elegant architecture that paved the way for today’s complex systems.

Source code licensed for freedom and experimentation

The source code is shared under the Apache 2.0 license. That means developers can use, modify, and redistribute it freely. As a result, it opens the door to education, experimentation, and lightweight implementations—something that’s often missing from today’s closed-off AI world.

Google’s move contrasts today’s closed AI trend

While most modern AI firms have shifted to secrecy, this release is a nod to a more open era. Back when the Transformer first emerged, sharing knowledge was standard. Now, with companies tightening control over their models, this release feels like a breath of fresh air.

The revolution revisited

More than just a history lesson, the Transformer’s source code is a tool for the next generation. Whether you’re a student learning the basics or a developer prototyping a new idea, the path that began in 2017 is now open once again. And sometimes, the best way to move forward is to look back at where it all began.