New York Times Tests AI-Powered Recipe Modification Tool for Cooking App

The New York Times has begun testing an AI-powered feature on its Cooking app that allows users to personalize recipes according to their own needs.

Announced by the app's senior editor Genevieve Ko, the feature allows users to swap ingredients in recipes, adapt to different cooking equipment, and rescale portion sizes. For example, a user who wants to use baby spinach instead of kale might be advised by the AI that the spinach should be added later in the recipe because it wilts faster.

Currently available to iOS users and planned for a gradual rollout, this feature does not allow personalized recipes to be shared or published within the app. Officials stated that the feature is entirely optional, noting that there is currently no option to disable the AI support.

Assessment: Concerns have been raised among app users regarding the environmental impact of AI integration and its consequences on the overall user experience. NYT spokesperson Jordan Cohen stated that closing comments on the announcement post is a standard practice for the organization.