Frugal AI: Introduction, Concepts, Development and Open Questions

Published on July 7, 2025

1 min

Ludovic Arga, François Bélorgey, Arnaud Braud, Romain Carbou, Nathalie Charbonniaud, Catherine Colomes, Lionel Delphin-Poulat, David Excoffier, Christel Fauché, Thomas George, Frédéric Guyard, Thomas Hassan, Quentin Lampin, Vincent Lemaire, Pierre Nodet, Pawel Piotrowski, Krzysztof Sapiejewski, Emilie Sirvent-Hien, Tamara Tosic

Abstract

This document aims to provide an overview and synopsis of frugal AI, with a particular focus on its role in promoting cost-effective and sustainable innovation in the context of limited resources. It discusses the environmental impact of AI technologies and the importance of optimising AI systems for efficiency and accessibility. It explains the interface between AI, sustainability and innovation. In fourteen sections, it also makes interested readers aware of various research topics related to frugal AI, raises open questions for further exploration, and provides pointers and references.

Authors

  • Ludovic Arga

  • François Bélorgey

  • Arnaud Braud

  • Romain Carbou

  • Nathalie Charbonniaud

    Responsible AI research lead and expert at Orange

  • Catherine Colomes

  • Lionel Delphin-Poulat

  • David Excoffier

  • Christel Fauché

  • Thomas George

  • Frédéric Guyard

  • Thomas Hassan

  • Quentin Lampin

  • Vincent Lemaire

  • Pierre Nodet

  • Pawel Piotrowski

    R&D Expert - Orange Innovation Poland, Department of the Center for Artificial Intelligence Competence

  • Krzysztof Sapiejewski

    Associate - Orange Innovation Poland, Department of the Center for Artificial Intelligence Competence

  • Emilie Sirvent-Hien

    AI Program Manager

  • Tamara Tosic

    Research engineer, researcher at Orange.