Sellers - Stop using 'AI' nonsense for descriptions, you are losing sales....

[leon9503]

It might seem an easy option but I won't buy from sellers who use the lazy option for descriptions, it's sometimes completely wrong or just nonsense and does not tell me want I want to know to make a buying descision so I don't.

I want real descriptions of the item not made up ones by a machine!

I recently looked at some Lens filters and I was informed they were circular, obviously the pics weren't a clue....LOL. What I want to know is the condition of the glass, nothing else not that they are a great item to have in my kit....Yawn.

Technology is even making websites dumb.

[bojangled]

The use of the word 'stunning' in any part of a listing has always amused me.

I don't think I've ever been knocked into a state of semi consciousness, or unable to react whilst viewing a listing or browsing ebay...

Jo

[theelench]

My favorite misnomer is still "Rare" or even "Super Rare", which the seller knows isn't true and so does everyone else when they see that the price tag is a fiver 🤣

[eastern-lights]

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@theelench wrote:

In Art Deco glass the AI's must-use phrase seems to be  "a stunning addition to any collection". 

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In collectable diecast models the AI go to phrase is "a must-have for any diecast and vehicle enthusiast or collector." Or there is something on the lines of, "Will enhance any collection."

I'm not convinced this is AI in the proper sense of the term. These days it seems that any decision that comes out of a computer is referred to as AI whereas really it is a very human programmer programing in a set of rules set out by other humans. Unless the computer learns and develops, and there is no evidence of this Ebay rubbish developing over time, then it is NOT artificial intelligence. (A bit of a hobby horse of mine.)

[kath3735_wxmjn]

Coins are another good example of 'rare' items,   if Benjamin Bunny circulation 50p is rare why do i have 4 at the moment in my box???  The only true 'rare' modern coins (if you can call them that) are the RM limited edition ones that are boxed and numbered.   Would not even class the Kew Garden one as rare either, plenty for sale if you want one.   I got a 50p in my change a couple of months ago that i had never seen before and looked on e bay and there are loads for sale, some classed as 'rare' 

[technthread]

I listed loads of coins yesterday. During research it was laughable what I saw on eBay. £3 value coins listed for 2 grand. 

[eastern-lights]

I would never describe anything as "rare" in a listing. It invites a return because "it's not rare". Rare is ill defined. I would price the item based on my perception of its rarity and let the buyer decide whether they think it is rare enough to justify the price.

[abcd1351]

Agree, AI powered descriptions are generic and just nonsense. I don't read any further and move on!

[snafu2009]

I recently messaged a seller to let him know that the AI descriptions for some of his LPs were incorrect and tracklists mentioned tracks that were not even by the relevant bands. He wrote back to say it wasn't his fault, AI did it. A case of Dumb and Dumber as far as I am concerned.

I too will not buy from listings for which the seller has used the AI description to tell me how much the item will enhance my garden, my living room etc. rather than give me actual details about the item itself.

[jazzyjasper01uk]

This is so true. It's counter productive for me. I want a concise description of item, its condition, any faults and if its clothing measurements since label sizing can't be relied on nowadays. AI descriptions make me move on to something else

[leon9503]

Please don't get me started on the, all but useless, search function, EB really is crumbling under its own nonsense.

: )

[leon9503]

Thanks again for the continued contributions, just got some more notifications, so I am reading them and thanks for the humour, as it's definately needed on EB ; )

After a break from EB and on my return I have noticed more 'AI' *bleep*ola in items but more a few more people adding to it but that could just be my item preferences, mainly camera gear, where descriptions are vital, it doesn't help when they add 'Pictures are part of the description' DUH! No! But better stop there....; )

I see the 'Search' function gets a few mentions and honestly it's killing EB for me but that's a different subject for another post.

Appreciate the input folks, keep it coming.

Leon

[leon9503]

I thought everything over a week old that is on EB was 'Rare' or 'Vintage' 😄

My wife collects those 50p's for fun but she knows they are only worth....50p 😉

[leon9503]

I think sometimes it depends on the item, as someone else said who buys glass and myself who buys lenses and filters, the condition of the glass is very specific and the most important part but a lot of 'AI' descriptions do not ever mention it and I don't use pictures as a measure of condition as they can be manipulated by how you take them.

[leon9503]

Sorry had to include this latest nonsense as an example:

"Enhance your photography with these high-quality lenses designed for your camera. With a variety of sizes and types to choose from, you can easily find the perfect match for your photography style. These lenses have been crafted with precision to ensure optimal performance and stunning results. Whether you're a professional photographer or a hobbyist, these lenses are an excellent addition to your kit. Each lens is designed with maximum aperture for exceptional low-light performance. The focus type and mount are also versatile, allowing you to achieve the perfect shot with ease. With a unit quantity of 11, you'll have plenty of options to explore. Take your photography to the next level with these exceptional lenses."

Let me know if you can see a Lens 😄

Also kinda funny that EB uses 'webp' for images but doesn't support 'webp' links or uploads here!

[snafu2009]

Today's find and no-sale... Blue striped round-neck T-shirt, size 18, (plain aside from being striped).

Highlights of the AI description -  size 12 black V-neck pullover which is also a stylish blouse with button accents and floral pattern adding elegance

How does a person not see this for the utter twaddle it is and think to edit it?

[eastern-lights]

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@snafu2009 wrote:

Today's find and no-sale... Blue striped round-neck T-shirt, size 18, (plain aside from being striped).

Highlights of the AI description -  size 12 black V-neck pullover which is also a stylish blouse with button accents and floral pattern adding elegance

How does a person not see this for the utter twaddle it is and think to edit it?

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Might be worth messaging the seller to innocently ask if they have used the wrong photos as they don't seem to match the description? 😁

[snafu2009]

I did message the seller, will be interesting to see if it's the photos or the description which change 😉

[leon9503]

Maybe it was reversable and that's what was on the other side.........😳 😁

That's ridiculous and as you say why didn't anyone edit it as it's complete c**p.

[andrerobin.t4sto]

Totally agree. The AI descriptions are as awful as they are hilarious at times. I think it does put buyers off because if I open an item and it starts with 'Elevate your wardrobe' (What would this AI bot do without the word 'elevate' lol) I immediately click away from the item. 

I was looking at something today - a top from a brand named Dancing Leopard - the AI bot had just made a word salad for the description and it said yarda yarda leopard print top. The top was plain green! 

I think this is Ebay Company just trying to keep up with modern technology and failing. 

[andrerobin.t4sto]

Lol -all these comments about AI descriptions are making me chuckle. 'Stunning' is one that always makes me smile. Another is 'a must-have for the fashion conscious woman' and 'elevate your wardrobe.' 

I seem to be sell stuff ok without using the bonkers superlatives.