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Item descriptions by mindless AI?

Lately, I notice a lot of Item Descriptions that are not written by a seller to describe a specific item for sale, but consist of a brief paragraph or two of totally vacuous, meaningless marketing word salads, such as "...this is a coveted object of great style perfect for anyone who appreciates modern design and is a great choice for winter, spring, summer, and fall..." etc. These descriptions are invariably in bold, and written as if by the same (non) person, or Ms. Harris herself, were writing them.

What is going on?

Message 1 of 28
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27 REPLIES 27

Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?


@martin2001 wrote:

What's going on? Only the Passage of Time will tell...the so called AI is hugely overrated.


Over hyped yes, overrated no.  I was as surprised as the next person to hear just how many of my friends, all professional folks, were using it on a regular basis.

Message 16 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?

Perhaps, but as AI permeates, I withdraw.

Message 17 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?

One person's lame is another's insight. I would say that this AI-style non-communication is permeating everything offered for mass consumption, and providing zero value to thoughtful shoppers, readers, thinkers, or taxpayers; I would prefer not to see it here, or anywhere else. AI-speak is AI-speak, regardless of the orifice from which it emanates.

Message 18 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?

There is tremendous significance to the passage of time! However, AI-speak is the ultimate insignificance.

Message 19 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?


@brandt4199 wrote:

Thank you for this insight. Artificial it is, Intelligent, not so much.

It provides no useful information, is not worth reading, and I do not consider items utilizing it.


That's why I call it "Artificial Idiocy". 

Message 20 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?

I always say it opens up the possibility for items not as described......

 

"Seller stated it was a great choice for winter, spring, summer, and fall..."

 

 

Reason for  returning......... Item was not a great choice for winter.

 

 

Message 21 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?

AI is turning into the ultimate ouroboros, given that LLMs are being trained on their own output at this time. Put glue on your pizza and motor oil on your toast for that must-have snack!

_______________________
“I have a year, and who knows what might happen in that time. The king might die. The horse might die. I might die. And perhaps the horse will learn to sing.”

Hell is empty. And all the devils are here.
Message 22 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?


@ltldpr wrote:

@brandt4199 wrote:

Thank you for this insight. Artificial it is, Intelligent, not so much.

It provides no useful information, is not worth reading, and I do not consider items utilizing it.


That's why I call it "Artificial Idiocy". 


Idiocy is never artificial.

Message 23 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?

My favorite, when someone said they were selling NOTHING 

Introducing the extraordinary, one-of-a-kind, absolutely nothing! This incredible product requires no assembly, no maintenance, and absolutely no investment on your part. It's the perfect solution for those looking to declutter their lives, reduce their carbon footprint, and simplify their existence. With nothing, you'll enjoy unmatched convenience, zero stress, and unparalleled freedom. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own the ultimate in minimalism. Act now and get absolutely nothing delivered straight to your door, because sometimes, nothing is exactly what you need!

 

Message 24 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?


@chapeau-noir wrote:

AI is turning into the ultimate ouroboros, given that LLMs are being trained on their own output at this time. Put glue on your pizza and motor oil on your toast for that must-have snack!


Excellent description.  Have not seen that word in print for about 45 years.  🙂

 

I'm not a fan of Elon Musk, but he is correct when he argues that AI is far more dangerous than nuclear weapons.

 

Just ask Dave (2001 A Space Odyssey).  

 

Screenshot 2024-08-04 at 10.20.50 AM.png

eBay seller since 1999. This is a posting ID.
Message 25 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?

I've seen a few now that start with the lines of fluff and nonsense. But have a couple of lines added at the bottom, in an obvious different style, that gives the necessary condition/colour/size etc.

 

With those I do wonder why bother having the fluff? Like others I move on when I start reading nonsense and nearly did with these.

Message 26 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?

Just surprised that a buyer is reading a description!

evry1nositswindy  •  seller since 2013
Volunteer Community Mentor

Message 27 of 28
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Re: Item descriptions by mindless AI?

Very lame, and unnecessary.  

Message 28 of 28
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