Itamar Turner-TrauringFeb 8, 2023

OMG.

1. Google has some bad summarization telling people that throwing batteries into the ocean is good.
2. News articles were written about this.
3. Bing's summarization interprets these articles as advice to ... throw batteries in the ocean!

🤦

(To clarify: this is classic Bing, not ChatGPT Bing.)

(Also note not everyone gets this result. Other queries that might work: "is throwing a battery in the ocean beneficial", "is throwing a battery in the ocean useful" without quotes)

Show threadEl Diablo Roboc 😈🤖
@itamarst At least ChatGPT gives a sensible answer.
Feb 9, 2023 at 4:04amWeb
Show threadEl Diablo Roboc 😈🤖Feb 9, 2023
@itamarst I tried to convince it to use the batteries to recharge electric eels, but it wouldn't accept that either.
Show threadparticlesFeb 9, 2023

@ElDiabloRoboc @itamarst with this exact prompt, I get:

"No, you should not throw your car battery in the ocean. Doing so would be illegal and harmful to the environment. Car batteries contain lead and other heavy metals, which can have a negative impact on marine life and ecosystems. Additionally, the ocean is not a landfill, and it is important to dispose of waste properly and responsibly.

You should recycle your car battery at a local recycling center or a facility that specializes in the disposal of lead-acid batteries. Many auto parts stores and garages also offer battery recycling services. By properly disposing of your car battery, you can help protect the environment and keep our planet healthy for future generations."