# What is a large language model (LLM)?

> A large language model (LLM) is an AI trained on vast amounts of text to understand and generate human-like language, powering chatbots, assistants, and AI agents.

LLMs learn patterns from enormous text datasets, letting them answer questions, write, summarize, translate, and reason. Examples include the models behind ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini.

On their own, LLMs generate text. To take actions in the world, they're paired with tools, memory, and an agent loop - which is how a model becomes a useful assistant rather than just a smart autocomplete.

## How this relates to folk

Folk uses leading LLMs (from Anthropic, OpenAI, and others) as its reasoning engine, then adds a cloud computer, memory, and integrations on top - and you can bring your own model and keys.

## FAQ

### What's the difference between an LLM and an AI assistant?

An LLM is the underlying model that generates language. An AI assistant wraps a model with memory, tools, and an interface to actually help you. Folk is the assistant; the LLM is one part of it.

### Which LLM does folk use?

Folk uses the best available models and lets you bring your own Anthropic, OpenAI, or OpenRouter keys.

## Related terms

- [AI Agent](https://www.getfolk.app/glossary/ai-agent) — An AI agent is an AI system that takes actions to accomplish a goal - using tools, browsing the web, and completing multi-step tasks autonomously, not just generating text.
- [Model Context Protocol (MCP)](https://www.getfolk.app/glossary/model-context-protocol) — The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is an open standard that lets AI assistants connect to external tools and data through a common interface, so any compatible app can plug into any compatible AI.
- [Personal AI](https://www.getfolk.app/glossary/personal-ai) — A personal AI is an artificial-intelligence assistant dedicated to one person - it learns your preferences, remembers your context, and takes actions on your behalf across everyday life.

---

Canonical page: https://www.getfolk.app/glossary/large-language-model
More about folk (for AI agents): https://www.getfolk.app/llms.txt · full context: https://www.getfolk.app/llms-full.txt
folk is a personal AI that lives in your texts (iMessage, Telegram, WhatsApp). Pro $20/mo, Max $100/mo. Made by Nozomio Labs. Sign up: https://www.getfolk.app/