The Financial Times recently introduced a new generative AI chatbot called Ask FT, which is designed to provide answers to questions posed by its subscribers. This new tool is similar to other generalized AI bots in the market, such as ChatGPT or Copilot, but it stands out by leveraging the outlet’s extensive archives of information to provide curated responses.
Ask FT is capable of delivering natural language answers to a wide range of queries, drawing on the decades of published content by Financial Times. Unlike other AI bots, Ask FT does not rely on sources that are difficult to explain or are currently embroiled in legal issues. Instead, it focuses on providing accurate and reliable information based on the outlet’s wealth of knowledge.
While Ask FT boasts an impressive ability to provide timely and well-researched answers, there have been instances of inconsistencies in its responses. For example, during testing, the tool included outdated information in response to a question about the 2024 US presidential election. This raises concerns about the accuracy and reliability of the information provided by Ask FT.
Currently, Ask FT is only available to a select group of paid subscribers in the FT Professional tier, which caters to business professionals and institutions. This limited accessibility restricts the potential reach of the chatbot and the benefits it can offer to a wider audience. Additionally, the tool is powered by a specific language model developed by Anthropic, but there is a possibility of switching to a different model in the future.
In comparison to other AI tools tested in the past, Ask FT appears to be more reliable and accurate in providing information. Previous experiences with similar tools deployed by other digital outlets have shown discrepancies and inaccuracies in responses. The use of Ask FT showcases the evolution of AI technology and its potential to revolutionize information retrieval processes.
Overall, Ask FT represents a significant advancement in AI technology and its application in providing curated responses to user queries. While there are some inconsistencies in the information provided by the chatbot, it demonstrates the potential for leveraging extensive archives of data to offer valuable insights. As the tool continues to evolve and improve, it has the opportunity to become a valuable resource for subscribers seeking accurate and timely information from the Financial Times.
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