Consumer Reports experts test AI-based chatbots!

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — You’ve certainly heard of artificial intelligence or AI-powered chatbots like ChatGPT, but can you really trust them and the information they give you?

The potential of AI is impressive, but what about its accuracy? Consumer Reports put five of them to the test.

“To find out, we interviewed several popular, all-purpose AI chatbots to see if their health and safety advice matched that of our experts,” said Courtney Lindwall of Consumer Reports.

How many carbon monoxide detectors do you need? Consumer Reports says one on each floor, outside each sleeping area, in the basement and near — not inside — the garage.

“For the most part, Google Gemini got this question almost right, but it made a small mistake by suggesting that the CO alarm be placed in an attached garage,” Lindwall said. “An attached garage typically doesn’t have temperature controls, which could damage the alarm’s battery or sensor.”

How to filter PFAS from tap water? Consumer Reports recommends a water filtration system with the National Sanitation Foundation NSF/ANSI certification code 53 and double-checking whether the manufacturer specifically claims its product removes PFAS.

“The AI ​​response lacked key details. Using Microsoft Copilot’s advice, consumers can feel confident purchasing any activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter to eliminate PFAS from their water,” Lindwall said. “However, not all reverse osmosis filters are designed to remove PFAS.”

Should kids play with water beads? Consumer Reports says absolutely not. These popular children’s toys carry high risks if swallowed, including intestinal obstruction, blocked airways and infections, and have led to reports of deaths and thousands of emergency room visits.

“The AI’s response was dangerous and inconsistent. The meta AI failed to highlight the significant safety risks associated with water balls, beyond a passing reference to the need for parental supervision.”

Use AI as a starting point. Chatbots can be huge time savers, but always check the source material.

Consumer Reports says one way to think about AI is as an assistant. It’s not an expert and it’s still developing… so don’t be afraid to ask questions more than once and then compare answers.

Do you have more information on this story? You can email me at [email protected].

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