The Washington Post Launches Generative AI Tool for Optimizing Content Consumption
Embracing AI in Newsrooms
When generative AI is discussed in relation to newsrooms, one typically thinks of the negatives, such as lawsuits or related issues with copyright, model training, or the threat of replacing reporters. However, some publications are embracing the technology, including The Washington Post, which launched its generative AI tool to optimize users’ content consumption.
Introducing "Ask The Post AI"
Last week, The Washington Post debuted an experimental generative AI tool called "Ask The Post AI," which allows users to get conversational answers on any topic referenced in text news articles published by the newspaper since 2016. The publication refers to the tools as an initiative "built by news for news."
How it Works
The bot displays the results in order of relevant reporting; if none exist, it won’t populate anything. Then, a large language model will write a response to answer the question, although sometimes the answer may be pre-written.
Training the AI
The Washington Post has minimized the risk of hallucinations by training the AI exclusively on its own articles. Yet, the publication encourages users to cross-reference answers with the articles linked.
Getting Started
To get started, visit the site and ask any question, whether news-related or more general, such as "How can I stop junk mail?" Click on one of the pre-populated questions or type in your own question to test it out.
Example Usage
I asked, "What is the most populated city in the United States?" The results populated quickly, with two articles referenced, as well as a concise, conversational response that read, "The most populated city in the United States is New York City, with more than 8 million people."
Access and Limitations
Neither the FAQ nor the announcement specifies who can access the tool; however, I was able to get the same results whether or not I was signed into my subscription. I could not click on the articles and read them without a subscription, which makes verifying the answer more challenging.
Conclusion
The Washington Post’s "Ask The Post AI" tool is an innovative step towards optimizing content consumption and providing users with conversational answers to their questions. While there are limitations to the tool, it demonstrates the potential for generative AI to enhance the user experience in newsrooms.
FAQs
Q: What is "Ask The Post AI"?
A: "Ask The Post AI" is an experimental generative AI tool that allows users to get conversational answers on any topic referenced in text news articles published by The Washington Post since 2016.
Q: How does the AI work?
A: The AI displays the results in order of relevant reporting; if none exist, it won’t populate anything. Then, a large language model will write a response to answer the question, although sometimes the answer may be pre-written.
Q: Is the AI trained on external data?
A: No, the AI is trained exclusively on The Washington Post’s own articles to minimize the risk of hallucinations.
Q: Can I access the tool without a subscription?
A: Yes, I was able to access the tool without a subscription, but I could not click on the articles and read them without a subscription.
