The New York Times is introducing AI-powered tools to its Cooking app, including ingredient substitutions and measurement conversions. Genevieve Ko, NYT Cooking senior editor, explains the new features are designed to enhance the cooking experience, not replace human expertise. The tool, currently available on iOS for subscribers, allows users to modify recipes—for example, swapping chard for spinach—and adjusts cooking times accordingly.
The development team spent extensive time aligning AI responses with culinary standards. However, the move has sparked strong criticism from readers. Many expressed disappointment, arguing that AI undermines the human-crafted recipes they value.
Sentiment analysis of 171 comments revealed roughly 77% negative reactions, with users calling the update unnecessary and counterproductive. Ko addressed concerns about AI ethics, emphasizing the features aim to support, not replace, the tactile joy of cooking.
Source: Hacker News · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing