Could AI Language Models Like ChatGPT Unlock Mysterious Ancient Texts?

A good use for AI
Approximately 4,000 years ago, an ancient civilization living in the Indus Valley (today’s India and Pakistan) comprised 10 percent of the world’s population. Though few records remain about this group of people, archaeologists found they were advanced enough to have their own writing system — which has still yet to be deciphered.

Known as the Indus script, the mysterious text has puzzled scholars, linguists and even cryptographers for decades. Only a few hundred symbols have been classified, as scientists haven't discovered a “Rosetta stone,” or key, for decoding this unknown language. But recent advancements in artificial intelligence — including large language models like ChatGPT — could change that, providing further insights into ancient civilizations.