GoKawiilNYT Cooking rolls out AI recipe modifier in iOS beta amid subscriber backlash
The New York Times began testing an AI-powered tool that lets Cooking subscribers modify recipes, currently available only in an iOS beta. The announcement drew heavy criticism in the comments section, with readers threatening to cancel subscriptions and asking how to disable the feature; commenting was shut off after four days and 172 largely negative responses. A WIRED writer who tested the tool reported it worked better than expected despite skepticism about tech additions to cooking products.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The backlash suggests a portion of NYT Cooking's audience values the human, personality-driven voice of recipe writers like Melissa Clark and may see AI modification as undermining that relationship. The Times' decision to proceed with the beta despite visible subscriber anger could indicate the company is betting that functional usefulness will outweigh initial resistance, though this remains an inference rather than a stated company position. The episode also reflects a broader pattern of mixed consumer reception toward AI and smart-tech additions in cooking and kitchen products.
- NYT Cooking is testing an AI recipe-modification tool in an iOS-only beta.
- Commenters reacted angrily, prompting the Times to disable comments on the announcement after 172 responses.
- A WIRED tester found the tool worked well despite a history of failed smart-kitchen tech.
Source: wired.com — Joe Ray, 2026-11-08
Published there as: “I Used NYT Cooking’s New AI-Powered Recipe Modifier, and It’s Actually Pretty Good”
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