

The problem here is you are both characterizing Ars as you would other companies that have these AI mandates. Ars is the opposite, they have a mandate NOT to use AI.
While I agree a separation of responsibilities is important, they had two coauthors for exactly that reason. One trusted the other for the references, not knowing that they used AI.
Either way, the initial comment is certainly not “absolutely correct” when it comes to Ars.
Wait till you see how many Bluetooth devices still do this. Or better yet, Ant+.