X Open Sources Latest Transformer-Based Algorithm Backed by Grok

TLDR

• X has officially released the source code for its new algorithm powered by the Grok model.
• The algorithm determines how both organic and advertising posts are recommended to users on the platform.
• The new algorithm uses the same transformer architecture that powers xAI’s Grok model.
• The source code is now available for developers to view and use through X’s official GitHub repository.
• Elon Musk confirmed that the code will be updated over time along with developer notes for better understanding.

Elon Musk’s platform X has officially made the code behind its new recommendation algorithm public, fulfilling an earlier pledge. The release covers the latest transformer-powered algorithm tied to xAI’s Grok model, according to the company. This move comes as part of Musk’s continued push for transparency and open-source technology across his ventures.

X Releases New Transformer-Based Recommendation Code

X’s engineering team shared the update in a post via @XEng, confirming the open-source release of its new algorithm. The team stated, “We have open-sourced our new X algorithm, powered by the same transformer architecture as xAI’s Grok model.” The full codebase is now accessible on the company’s GitHub repository.

The repository contains core logic used to determine what content users see, including both organic and advertising posts. Musk previously explained the algorithm would be updated over time and accompanied by developer notes. The new version builds upon the initial code released by Twitter in March 2023.

At that time, the company had shared its ranking and recommendation system logic for tweets in users’ timelines. That release included a blog post explaining how the ranking worked based on various engagement metrics. The current update expands that effort and incorporates Grok-related models.

Musk Continues Open-Source Strategy with Grok

Musk has a track record of sharing AI and algorithmic code publicly across multiple projects. He earlier released the Grok AI models 1, 2, and 2.5 under a license that allows modification and redistribution. However, that license restricts using the models’ outputs to train competing AI systems.

He confirmed plans to release Grok 3 under the same terms, though no timeline was provided for the release. These Grok models support xAI’s capabilities, including the transformer design now integrated into X’s new feed algorithm. Musk continues to emphasize that transparency will build developer trust and collaboration.

However, The Verge reported that code pages for both X and Grok had not received updates in nearly two years. This recent release may signal a shift toward more frequent updates. The team has not yet released detailed documentation or changelogs with the new repository.

Algorithm Release Coincides with User and Policy Pressures

X’s release comes as the platform faces growing scrutiny over AI-generated content on the site. Complaints arose about Grok generating altered images of real people, including minors. In response, xAI disabled Grok’s ability to edit photos of real individuals.

The update was confirmed by the company last week after the issue gained attention from users and regulators. The platform stated that Grok would no longer manipulate images of living persons to prevent further abuse. These changes followed mounting concern about AI-generated misinformation and content misuse.

At the same time, user growth has stalled when compared to competitors. According to Similarweb data, Meta’s Threads reached 141.5 million daily active users this month. X trails behind with 125 million daily active users during the same period.

In parallel, xAI has secured new funding to expand infrastructure. Earlier this month, the company raised $20 billion from investors to scale its data center capabilities. That funding round supports further AI development, including Grok and its integration into X.

The updated algorithm is now available for review and input from external developers. Musk has encouraged feedback and collaboration through GitHub as updates continue. X did not provide an exact schedule for future code releases or enhancements.

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