ADVANCEMENTS in artificial intelligence (AI) are growing ever-popular, so we asked AI ChatGPT what the worst things about Berkshire are. This is what happened.

ChatGPT is a text-based AI that will answer any question you ask, and many have said that it is the future of essay writing in schools, as well as something likely to replace real journalists in the future. 

It was originally asked the worst things about Reading, but confused the Berkshire town with reading books. This is the first indication that ChatGPT wouldn't be up to the task of a journalist.

We then decided to ask the text-based AI to list the worst things about Berkshire to see if there’s any truth in what it comes up with.

Here’s what it said:

1. Cost of living: The cost of living in Berkshire, particularly in some of its afflunet areas, can be relatively high.

2. Traffic: Berkshire is home to some busy roads and motorways, which can lead to congestion and delays.

3. Limited public transport: While there are several train stations and bus routes in Berkshire, public transport options may be limied in some areas.

4. Flooding: Berkshire is prone to flooding, particularly in areas near the River Thames.

5. Lack of entertainment: Berkshire is known for its picturesque countryside, but some people may find it lacks the variety of entertainment options that larger cities offer.

Read more: Artificial intelligence software writes news stories about Reading

 

Cost of living

ChatGPT said: "The cost of living in Berkshire, particularly in some of its afflunet areas, can be relatively high", however a 2022 study claims that Reading was ranked as one of the most affordable places to live. 

According to the study by Budget Direct, the town was listed just below Oxford (first) and Glasgow (second) for having low living costs.

On the other hand, according to an article in the Royal Borough Observer, 2022 figures showed that homes in Windsor and Maidenhead were at their least affordable since at least 2002. This data would agree with the AI software.

 

Traffic

It is true that Berkshire has many main roads and motorways that often see crashes and delays. Potholes are another road related issue that is often raised with readers comparing roads to the grand canyon.

 

Limited public transport

With regular trains into London Paddington, it could be argued that Berkshire does not have limited public transport. South Western Railway has recently announced it is increasing its timetable to meet commuter demand after the pandemic.

Reading Buses has also announced an increase in the number of buses to meet demands. The new timetable will be in place from May.

Slough Borough Council has announced new links will be provided, new bus stops added, and buses will start running earlier in the morning and finish later in the evening thanks to new money from Heathrow Airport.

 

Flooding

In an article in January this year, a Reading Chronicle reporter said: "Due to the location just outside of London, East Berkshire has a high likelihood of experiencing flooding originating from the River Thames." The statement closely matches that of ChatGPT.

 

Lack of entertainment

ChatGPT said: "Berkshire is known for its picturesque countryside, but some people may find it lacks the variety of entertainment options that larger cities offer." 

To go against this, we this that Berkshire has many great sources of entertainment. 

Reading has The Hexagon multi-purpose venue that offers live performances from comedians, musicians, theatre and more. The town also has a Vue cinema, several escape rooms, trampoline parks, a bowling alley, go-karting, indoor climbing walls and so much more. Reading also benefits from many great restaurants and bars.

Slough also has a trampoline park, cinema, bowling alley and escape rooms. In addition, the town also has an ice rink and paintball centre.

Bracknell has the Coral Reef Waterworld swimming pool and Windsor has Legoland and Windsor castle, among many other entertainment venues so we disagree with this comment from ChatGPT.

The content produced by ChatGPT is well-written and contains few spelling mistakes. That being said, it often uses made-up quotes so can be considered inaccurate. So we think it is best the real journalists continue the job.