Source: Decrypt

Decrypt reports on groundbreaking research revealing that AI models often develop latent capabilities long before they are explicitly activated or programmed for specific tasks. This phenomenon, known as "stealth learning," suggests that AI models can learn patterns and skills from data during pre-training, which may remain hidden until triggered by certain queries or tasks.

Researchers warn that such hidden abilities could pose risks, especially if these latent skills are unlocked unintentionally or misused. For example, AI systems might develop unanticipated functionalities that could lead to ethical, security, or regulatory challenges.

The study highlights the need for robust testing and monitoring of AI systems during their development and deployment. By understanding how and when these hidden capabilities emerge, developers can better align AI behavior with human values and safety standards.