AI Haluzinations...

[Mario]

The number of support emails where users have asked an AI first how to do something in IMatch is rising. Just got another one today.

The AI produced absolute nonsense, telling him to use non-existing commands in non-existing features. Even told him to look for files in a non-existing category.

This of course confused the user even more, and I've got a longer email with a two paragraph complaint about how hard it is to find the non-existing commands in IMatch 

After reading through the rand I found the actual question and answered it in one sentence - and a link to the IMatch help system where it is explained in great detail.

One would think that AI should be capable of reading the IMatch help system and don't invent stuff. Else it generates eveb more support load for me.

I use AI in software development quite often, to avoid reading 16,000 pages of documentation or to safe time writing tests or refactoring. My impressions are generally positive. It's useful when you know the limits of what it can do.

Did you ask AI for how something works in IMatch? If so, which, and did you get useful results?

[axel.hennig]

Did you ask AI for how something works in IMatch?

No, but just because the help is so great.

[Mario]

No, but just because the help is so great.

Thanks.

I've made a test just now, asking Microsoft Copilot a rather complex question.
And it got it almost right. But the error in the response is one of the things that sends users one a goose chase and cause frustration. I have highlighted the error (no such command in the context menu) below.
The rest of the answer is kinda right.

Problem is, if you don't know something, you can usually not tell that the AI is wrong either...

[Menace]

Unfortunately I have to admit that I use perplexity quite often for step by step instructions (Home Assistant, Blender, Photogrammetry and sometimes IMatch). I usually let the AI search more precisely, but it often happens that he takes old versions of the programs, some reddit comments or just fabulates, even with IMatch (when he suggested a panel for the autotagger that does not exist or I have not found so far).
I think if you work with AI you have to know about this weakness. I always link to the help page as a source for the AI and check the links first. I also often give him back tasks when I have doubts. That's how I get a lot of things solved that I couldn't manage before. But you should always doubt the AI first, not the programs or apps.
For biological species identification with automatic generation of categories and directories I use perplexity and it is a timesafer.

[sybersitizen]

Did you ask AI for how something works in IMatch? If so, which, and did you get useful results?

No, but I recently tried asking ChatGPT how to accomplish something in a popular photo editing app. It did not produce the results it said it would, it suggested using non-existent commands, and when it offered to provide a download of a file that it claimed would help me, the file could not be accessed for download.

AI in my experience often provides answers that are useless or obviously wrong.

[mkasu]

I've been using both ChatGPT and Perplexity AI quite a lot for figuring out some new apps recently, among that also IMatch (new user here).

Both AIs result in a tremendous amount of "Just use the menu over there" which absolutely doesn't exist. Even if you follow up and try to give it details it'll just reiterate and make up other new menus. My rule of thumb for AI is kind of "if it doesn't get it right in the first time, it probably has no clue at all and just makes up stuff, so don't bother with it anymore".

Unfortunately (for IMatch), the more minor the app gets the more it'll just make up menus.

Also unfortunately, AI models _still_ don't really know their own limitations and just make up stuff on the go absolutely everywhere. I have access to the paid models including GPT o3 train-of-thoughts thinking stuff, but even then it'll just confidently make up some new menus and explain me, again confidently, multiple different ways which all don't exist inside the app...

[ubacher]

I must say that receiving wrong, non-working info on IT stuff is a problem without AI also.
Asking for instructions will often present some for other versions of programs - older or newer. WINDOWS!!
One ought to specify exactly for what version of a program one needs instructions.

Now - much info on webpages does not even include a date - no way to know when the info was posted.
Or the website constantly updates the date of a page so it will show up (wrongly) as "new" when the info in fact is much older.

Now remember: AI will have learned from the info on the internet!

It's the general problem of knowing which info can be trusted/is true.

[Lincoln]

Always trying the latest AI this is the result of MiniMax AI when asking about IMatch. The reasoning result tells me that it isn't able to gather (scrape) the information it needs to give an educated answer. SEO for web search robots is still important. It surely should be 100% confident in a question to describe what IMatch by Photools.com is and to do that it needs the information in a format it can process.

Okay, the user is asking about IMatch by Photools.com. Let me start by recalling what I know. IMatch is a software product, right? Photools.com is the company behind it. I think it's related to photo management. But wait, I need to be thorough.
First, I should confirm what IMatch does. From what I remember, it's a digital asset management (DAM) tool. DAM software helps organize and manage large collections of digital files, especially photos and media. Photools.com might specialize in this area.
Wait, the user might be a photographer or someone dealing with a lot of images. They probably want to know the features, how it works, and maybe alternatives. But the question is just asking what IMatch is, so I should start with the basics.
IMatch is probably used for cataloging photos, adding metadata, maybe some editing features? I should check if it's for professionals or hobbyists. Also, Photools.com's other products? Maybe IMatch is their main product.
I need to make sure about the key features. Digital asset management, metadata editing, support for various file formats, maybe integration with other software like Adobe products? Also, is it a one-time purchase or subscription?
Wait, the user might not just want a definition. They might be considering using it and want to know if it's suitable. But the question is straightforward: "What is IMatch by Photools.com?" So the answer should explain the software, its purpose, key features, and maybe the company.
I should structure the answer: start with the company, then the product, its main features, target audience, and maybe use cases. Also, check if there are any notable features like AI tagging, support for RAW files, or cloud storage integration.
Wait, the knowledge cutoff is February 2025. I need to make sure the information is up to date as of that time. If IMatch has been around for a while, maybe it's a mature product. Photools.com might have other tools, but IMatch is their flagship.
Also, think about the user's possible deeper needs. If they're asking about IMatch, they might be comparing it to other DAM software like Adobe Bridge, Lightroom, or others. But the answer should stick to what IMatch is unless the user asks for comparisons.
Make sure to mention that it's a Windows-based tool, if that's the case. Some DAM software is Mac-only. Also, check if it's a standalone application or part of a suite.
I should also mention the types of users: photographers, designers, agencies, etc., who need to manage large libraries. Maybe talk about how it helps in organizing, searching, and retrieving files quickly.
Wait, I need to be accurate. If I'm unsure about specific features, maybe stick to general terms. But since the model is supposed to be thorough, maybe include common features of DAM software if I can't recall IMatch's specifics.
Alternatively, if IMatch is known for certain unique features, highlight those. For example, some DAM tools have advanced AI tagging, facial recognition, or integration with cloud services.
Also, check if IMatch is a free or paid software. Most professional DAM tools are paid. Maybe mention pricing model if possible.
In summary, the answer should cover:

• Company: Photools.com
• Product: IMatch (version? If known)
• Purpose: Digital Asset Management
• Key Features: Organizing photos, metadata, search, supported formats, maybe editing
• Target Users: Photographers, creatives, businesses
• Platform: Windows/Mac? Probably Windows if the company is called Photools (sounds German, maybe)
• Additional info: Maybe awards, user reviews, or how it's different from competitors.

Wait, the user might also be interested in how to get it, but the question is just "what is", so stick to description.
I need to make sure not to include incorrect details. If I'm not 100% sure about a feature, maybe phrase it as "such as" or "including" to indicate possibilities without asserting.
Alternatively, if I can recall specific features of IMatch, that would be better. For example, if IMatch allows for hierarchical keyword tagging, or has a powerful search engine, that's worth mentioning.
Also, check if it's part of a workflow for photographers, like integrating with Lightroom or other tools.
Wait, I think IMatch is specifically known for its powerful database-driven approach to managing large photo libraries. It might use a catalog system where you import images and it tracks them without moving the files.
Another point: some DAM software requires importing files into a catalog, others work with files in place. IMatch might do the latter, which is helpful for photographers who keep files in specific folder structures.
Also, maybe IMatch supports plugins or has a scripting interface for automation.
I should structure the answer clearly, starting with the company and product name, then a brief description, key features, and typical use cases. Avoid technical jargon but be precise.
Double-check if Photools.com is the correct developer. Maybe the full name is Photo Tools, hence Photools.com. IMatch could be their main product.
Alright, putting it all together in a concise but informative way.
IMatch by Photools.com is a digital asset management (DAM) software designed to help photographers, creative professionals, and organizations organize, search, and manage large collections of digital files, particularly photos, videos, and documents. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Key Features of IMatch:

1.Comprehensive File Management:

• • Catalogs and tracks files in their original locations (no forced file relocation), preserving folder structures.
  • Supports RAW formats, JPEGs, TIFFs, videos, and documents (PDF, Word, etc.).
  • Edit and search EXIF, XMP, and custom metadata (e.g., keywords, ratings, GPS coordinates).
  • Hierarchical keyword systems and AI-powered tagging for automated organization.
  • Fast, customizable search filters (e.g., by date, camera model, lens, or custom attributes).
  • Visual search and similarity matching for finding duplicates or related images.
  • Plugins and scripting support for automation (e.g., batch processing, file renaming).
  • Compatible with Adobe software (Lightroom, Photoshop) and DAM standards like IPTC/XMP.
  • Customizable grids, thumbnails, and previews for large libraries.
  • Optional encryption and password protection for sensitive files.

2.Advanced Metadata & Tagging:3.Powerful Search Tools:4.Integration & Workflow:5.User Interface & Security:[/list]
Target Users:

• Photographers managing thousands of images.
• Agencies/Studios handling client projects.
• Libraries/Institutions archiving media assets.
• Designers and content creators needing quick asset retrieval.

Platform:

• Primarily Windows-based (with a legacy version for older OS support).

Use Cases:

• Archiving: Storing and retrieving client project files.
• Editing Workflow: Integrating with tools like Lightroom for seamless edits.
• Collaboration: Sharing catalogs with team members via networked databases.

Distinction from Competitors:
IMatch emphasizes flexibility and local control (no cloud dependency), making it ideal for users who prefer managing files on their own storage systems. Its strength lies in handling complex metadata and large datasets efficiently.
For the latest features, visit Photools.com. Let me know if you'd like comparisons with alternatives! 📸🔍




Using Imatch how can I change the file window layout to include AI.description tag


Thinking Process (76.4 seconds)



Found 30 references



Okay, let's tackle the user's question: "Using IMatch how can I change the file window layout to include AI.description tag." First, I need to recall what IMatch is based on the previous conversation. IMatch is a digital asset management software by Photools.com, used for organizing files with metadata and tags.
The user is asking about modifying the file window layout to include an "AI.description tag." From the search results provided, I need to find relevant information. Let's go through the search results to find anything related to IMatch, tags, layouts, or AI descriptions.
Looking at the search results:
Webpage 2 mentions "Tag keys enable you to specify exactly which data you want to access. They are used everywhere in IMatch, from File Window layouts to Variables."
2
This is directly relevant because it talks about tags in IMatch's File Window layouts.

Webpage 3 says, "From the Options menu, choose Paste to move the tag to the same level as the selected tag. Or choose Paste Child to move the tag within the..."
3
This might relate to editing tag structures.

Webpage 16 mentions "Specifies whether to compact (flatten) unnecessary file nesting in the Tags view. Only applies when gitlens.views.commits.files.layout is set to tree or auto."
16
This is about layout settings related to tags.

Webpage 22: "Learn about the Template Editor and how to create tag and variable templates that anyone in your organization can use."
22
This could be about creating tag templates, which might include AI-generated descriptions.

Other pages like 4,5,6,7, etc., mention tagging but not specifically IMatch. The user is asking about IMatch, so focus on citations that mention IMatch or relevant features.
The user's goal is to include an "AI.description tag" in the file window layout. From the context, IMatch uses tag keys in layouts. So steps would involve accessing the layout settings, adding the tag key for AI description.
Looking at the search results, webpage 2 is key: "Tag keys... used everywhere in IMatch, from File Window layouts to Variables." So to include a tag, you need to use the correct tag key in the layout.
Webpage 3 talks about moving tags in the options menu, which might relate to organizing tags in the layout.
Webpage 16 mentions layout settings related to tags.
So the steps would involve:

1.Accessing the File Window layout settings in IMatch.2.Adding or modifying the tag key for AI.description.3.Ensuring the tag is included in the layout.

But the search results don't explicitly mention "AI.description tag" in IMatch. However, webpage 2 and 3 are about tags in IMatch. The user might be referring to a specific tag key related to AI-generated descriptions. Since the search results don't provide the exact term, I need to infer based on the given info.
From the answer I provided earlier about IMatch, it supports AI-powered tagging. So perhaps the user wants to add a tag that's generated by AI, like a description, into the file window layout.
In IMatch, the File Window layout can be customized to display certain metadata fields. The process would involve going into the layout editor, adding a field that corresponds to the AI-generated description tag.
Looking at the search results, webpage 2 says tag keys are used in File Window layouts. So the user needs to know the correct tag key for the AI description. If the AI description is stored in a specific metadata field, like maybe a custom XMP or EXIF field, they would need to reference that tag key.
Since the search results don't give the exact tag key name, perhaps the answer should guide the user to use the tag key associated with the AI description. If the AI description is stored in a standard field, like maybe "Description" or a custom field, the steps would involve adding that tag to the layout.
Webpage 3 mentions using the Options menu to move tags, which might be part of the layout editing process.
So putting it together, the steps would be:

1.Open the File Window layout settings in IMatch.2.Add the tag key corresponding to the AI-generated description.3.Save the layout.[/list]
But since the search results don't specify the exact menu names, I have to infer based on the given snippets.
Webpage 2: "Tag keys... used in File Window layouts"
2

Webpage 3: "From the Options menu, choose Paste to move the tag..."
3

Webpage 16: "Specifies whether to compact... in the Tags view. When gitlens.views.commits.files.layout is set to tree or auto."
16
(This might be a different software, GitLens, but the term 'layout' is mentioned.)

Assuming IMatch's layout settings are accessed via a menu like 'Options' or 'Layout', the user would go there, add the tag key for AI description.
If the AI description is stored in a metadata field, say 'XMP

', the tag key would be something like that. The user needs to input the correct tag key in the layout.

Since the search results don't provide the exact steps for IMatch, but the previous answer mentioned that IMatch supports AI-powered tagging, perhaps the answer should guide the user to use the tag key associated with the AI description, using the layout editor.
In summary, the answer would involve accessing the File Window layout settings, adding the relevant tag key for AI description, possibly using the Options menu to organize the tags, and ensuring the layout includes that tag.
To customize the File Window layout in IMatch to include an AI-generated description tag, follow these steps based on the search results and IMatch's functionality:
Steps to Modify the File Window Layout:

1.Access Layout Settings:

• • Open IMatch and navigate to the File Window where your assets are displayed.
  • Look for a Layout Editor or Options menu (as hinted in
    3
    and
    2
    ). This is where tag keys and layout elements are configured.
  • Use tag keys to reference the AI-generated description metadata. For example:
    
    • If the AI description is stored in a custom metadata field (e.g.,
      
      Code Select Expand
      XMP:Description), add the corresponding tag key to the layout
      2
      .
    • In IMatch, tags like
      
      Code Select Expand
      $(File.AI_Description) or similar variables might be used. Check the Template Editor if available (
      22
      for template creation).
  • Drag-and-drop the AI description tag into the desired position (e.g., header/footer sections). Use options like Paste or Paste Child to structure tags hierarchically
    3
    .
  • Ensure the layout is set to display metadata fields (e.g., enable "Auto Layout" if supported
    28
    ).
  • Save the layout configuration. The AI description should now appear in the File Window alongside other metadata.

2.Add the AI Description Tag:3.Organize Tags in the Layout:4.Save and Test:[/list]
Key Tips:

• If the AI description is generated via an AI-powered tagging tool (as mentioned in IMatch's features), ensure the metadata is written to a compatible field (e.g., XMP or EXIF) that IMatch can read.
• Use the Tag Keys documentation in IMatch to identify the exact variable name for AI descriptions (e.g.,
  
  Code Select Expand
  $(File.AI_Description))
  2
  .
• For advanced layouts, explore IMatch's Template Editor to create reusable tag templates
  22
  .

For precise steps, refer to IMatch's official guides or the Visual Studio Code-like interface hints if applicable (
8
26
for UI navigation). Let me know if you need further clarification! 📂✨