SIGNALAI·Jun 5, 2026, 4:00 AMSignal75Medium term

Scaling Laws and Spectra of Shallow Neural Networks in the Feature Learning Regime

Source: arXiv cs.LG

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Scaling Laws and Spectra of Shallow Neural Networks in the Feature Learning Regime

arXiv:2509.24882v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Neural scaling laws underlie many of the recent advances in deep learning, yet their theoretical understanding remains largely confined to linear models. In this work, we present a systematic analysis of scaling laws for quadratic and diagonal neural networks in the feature learning regime. Leveraging connections with matrix compressed sensing and LASSO, we derive a detailed phase diagram for the scaling exponents of the excess risk as a function of sample complexity and weight decay. This analysis uncovers crossovers between distinct scaling

Why this matters
Why now

This research is published as the AI field continues to push the boundaries of model scale, making theoretical understanding of scaling laws critically important for future development.

Why it’s important

Understanding the theoretical underpinnings of neural network scaling laws allows for more efficient and predictable development of large AI models, reducing trial-and-error and improving performance.

What changes

This work potentially transitions the understanding of neural network scaling from empirical observation to more rigorous theoretical frameworks, particularly for specific network architectures.

Winners
  • · AI researchers
  • · Deep learning practitioners
  • · Companies investing in AI model development
Losers
  • · Teams using purely empirical scaling methods
  • · AI development relying on inefficient resource allocation
Second-order effects
Direct

Improved understanding and more efficient design of future neural networks.

Second

Faster progress in developing larger, more capable AI models due to better theoretical guidance.

Third

Reduced computational costs for achieving desired performance levels in AI, potentially broadening access to advanced AI development.

Editorial confidence: 90 / 100 · Structural impact: 60 / 100
Original report

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