AI assistant recommends vacuum cleaner models based on review sites

A user tested an AI assistant called Muse, developed by Meta, to recommend a robot vacuum. The AI provided only a few models, citing review sites like Vacuum Wars, which focuses on hands-on testing. Vacuum Wars earns revenue through affiliate links. The AI also mentioned other sources, including an AI-generated roundup on an aromatherapy blog. The user noted that major review sites like Wirecutter, PCMag, and Consumer Reports were not considered, possibly due to their stance against AI companies. The user cautioned that the AI's actions may not fully reflect its actual behavior. Muse's recommendations highlight the gap between AI-driven product suggestions and traditional web reviews, raising questions about the impact on media publishers reliant on such content. The user emphasized that the test was limited to one AI app, and the AI information economy is still evolving. Despite this, the user believes these AI assistants could become successful, mirroring the 'talk to me' interface envisioned in Star Trek. The trend toward a unified AI experience is evident, with companies like Anthropic and OpenAI moving away from customizable GPTs. The user also noted that while the AI cited Vacuum Wars as a reliable source, it did not mention being blocked from other sites, leaving room for speculation about potential restrictions.