# Small Language Model

> A smaller model optimized for lower cost, lower latency, local deployment, or narrow tasks.

- Category: Models & Training
- Stage: Rising
- Also called: SLM, Compact model
- Canonical: https://www.joelcsaji.com/ai-dictionary/small-language-model

## Plain English

Not every AI task needs the biggest model.

## Example

A phone runs a compact model locally to summarize notifications privately.

## Why it matters

SLMs help AI move into edge devices, private workflows, and high-volume product features.

## Related

- [Model Routing](https://www.joelcsaji.com/ai-dictionary/model-routing)
- [Distillation](https://www.joelcsaji.com/ai-dictionary/distillation)
- [Quantization](https://www.joelcsaji.com/ai-dictionary/quantization)

## Sources

- [Stanford HAI: 2026 AI Index](https://hai.stanford.edu/ai-index/2026-ai-index-report)
- [Google Cloud Generative AI Glossary](https://docs.cloud.google.com/docs/generative-ai/glossary)