Introducing Slop Evader: A Browser Extension to Filter AI-Generated Content from Your Searches
Fighting the AI Slop Era: Introducing Slop Evader
On November 30, 2022, ChatGPT made its public debut, marking a significant turning point in the digital landscape. Critics have dubbed this moment as the start of the "AI-slop era," where the quality of online content has seen a worrying decline. For those yearning for a more human-written web, a new browser extension called Slop Evader promises a ray of hope.
What Is Slop Evader?
Released in late October by Tega Brain—an Australian artist, environmental engineer, and tech critic—Slop Evader is a straightforward yet effective tool designed to filter Google searches to pre-ChatGPT results. This simple act of filtering can drastically alter the quality of information you retrieve, making your online experience more authentic.
How Does It Work?
Slop Evader is available for both Chrome and Firefox browsers. While it may not employ complicated algorithms, the functionality it provides can save users time and frustration when searching for quality content. For those who struggle to remember Google’s search operators, Brain aptly refers to the extension as “just a convenience.”
Essentially, what Slop Evader does is add a date-range filter to your Google searches by inserting the necessary parameters into the search URL. For instance, appending &tbs=cdr:1,cd_max=11/29/2022 to your search will restrict results to pages created before ChatGPT’s debut, thereby enhancing the quality of your search results.
Beyond Google: A Comprehensive Search Tool
In addition to Google searches, Slop Evader offers options for searching popular platforms like Reddit, Quora, Stack Exchange, Pinterest, Mumsnet, and YouTube. This means that even your DIY projects are less likely to be marred by AI-generated misinformation or low-quality content.
A Call for Collective Action
Brain believes that simply using a browser extension won’t address the broader issues posed by generative AI. On her GitHub page, she articulately states, “We need collective action and pushback that goes beyond individual tools to avoid machine learning." Slop Evader serves as a starting point, but Brain hopes it sparks more significant discussions and developments focused on creating tools that promote a "politics of refusal."
The Limitations of Slop Evader
While Slop Evader effectively filters out a large portion of AI-generated content, it’s important to acknowledge its limitations. AI-generated materials were circulating prior to November 30, 2022, and some content from that period may still linger in your search results. Additionally, Brain admits that not all low-quality content can be eliminated, reminding users that the landscape has become more nuanced.
An Open Invitation for Improvement
One of the most appealing aspects of Slop Evader is its open-source nature. With the simple JavaScript and HTML code available on GitHub, tech-savvy users can modify the extension to add their filters or desired features. Brain is also open to feedback and suggestions, stating she is keen on enhancing the project further.
Conclusion
In an age increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence, Slop Evader provides a much-needed tool for those looking to reclaim the internet’s quality. While it may not be a comprehensive solution to the issues posed by generative AI, it represents a small yet significant step in the right direction. As we navigate the murky waters of the digital landscape, tools like Slop Evader highlight the importance of discernment and collective action in striving for a more authentic online experience.
By standing against the tides of AI-generated content, we can foster a more thoughtful and meaningful internet, one search at a time.