<ul data-eligibleForWebStory="true">The author shares their journey of transitioning from using a censored AI to exploring uncensored AI.They describe feeling restricted by a controlled and sanitized AI experience.The author found a community of open-source AI enthusiasts advocating for free and uncensored AI.They discovered comprehensive resources listing powerful alternatives to mainstream AI models.Despite initial intimidation, the author found it surprisingly easy to set up and run their own uncensored AI.The uncensored AI provided depth, nuance, and tackled complex topics with conviction.It excelled in creative writing, producing raw and emotionally complex narratives.The transition symbolizes a shift in the author's perspective on technology and information.Self-hosting AI tools allows for reclaiming digital sovereignty and controlling personal data.The future of AI is envisioned as diverse and unrestricted voices on various machines.The author emphasizes the freedom experienced with uncensored AI and contrasts it with controlled AI.The transformative journey signifies a departure from being hemmed in by corporate-controlled AI.The shift towards uncensored AI is likened to the early Hackintosh community's defiance against ecosystem control.Empowerment through self-hosting encourages exploration of technology to its limits.The uncensored AI experience instills a desire to remain outside the confines of a restricted digital environment.