What type of machine learning models are often used for generating vector embeddings?

Neural networks, particularly those using architectures like transformers or convolutional neural networks (CNNs), are commonly employed for generating vector embeddings due to their ability to capture complex patterns in data. These models work by transforming input data into a continuous vector space where similar data points are positioned closer together, facilitating more effective comparisons and analyses.

Transformers, for instance, excel at processing sequential data such as text, allowing them to generate embeddings that represent the contextual relationships between words. This is crucial for tasks like natural language processing. CNNs, on the other hand, are particularly effective in analyzing spatial data like images, enabling them to create embeddings that capture visual features.

The ability to learn hierarchical representations through multiple layers makes neural networks highly powerful for embedding generation, as they can encapsulate nuances in the data that simpler models might overlook. Their adaptability and efficiency in handling large datasets also contribute to their prevalence in generating vector embeddings for various applications, including search, recommendation systems, and more.