The allure of culinary creations as depicted in television shows has inspired countless viewers to replicate these enticing dishes in their own kitchens. Whether it’s the magnificent timpano from “Big Night” or the rich beef bourguignon showcased in “Julie & Julia,” many home chefs yearn to recreate these artistic food moments. With the introduction of Samsung Food, a feature announced at CES 2025, the dream of cooking beloved dish may become more achievable – if you invest in their upcoming TVs, that is.
A Technological Leap in Culinary Arts
Samsung’s announcement of the Samsung Food feature represents a significant evolution in how technology integrates with cooking. The function utilizes advanced AI capabilities within the company’s 2025 television models, enabling the TV to recognize food items displayed on-screen and suggest corresponding recipes. However, this isn’t a brand-new concept. Samsung made waves in the culinary app sector when it acquired the food app Whisk in 2019, rebranding it as Samsung Food in 2023. Presently, the app features functionalities like meal planning and step-by-step cooking guides for a monthly fee, expanding its offerings to deliver recipe suggestions based on photos taken by users.
While the TV version of Samsung Food offers a taste of such technology, it does present limitations. Unlike its mobile counterpart, the TV interface primarily focuses on recommending recipes from what it sees on-screen, along with tracking grocery and delivery progress through the associated mobile app. This system can even curate a shopping list based on the available ingredients in the user’s refrigerator, culminating in what the company touts as “the ultimate AI sous chef.”
Evaluating Practicality and Performance
While Samsung Food’s advanced features capture the imagination, skepticism looms over how effectively these tools function in real life. Previous attempts, such as those by recipe app SideChef or even AI chatbots like ChatGPT, have raised eyebrows regarding their accuracy and usefulness in turning visual prompts into actionable recipes. An example of this would be the less-than-appealing end result that humorously became known as “Glue pizza.”
Moreover, while the idea of having an AI assistant to enhance the cooking experience is compelling, one glaring drawback remains: the AI will not do the actual cooking. For many potential users, especially those who feel overwhelmed by meal preparation, this could deter interest. Yet for avid bakers and experimental cooks inspired by shows like “The Great British Bake Off,” Samsung’s new TVs could offer an innovative resource to elevate their culinary game.
The inclusion of Samsung Food in models like the QN90F, QN80F, and QN70F promises to usher in a new chapter in the intersection of technology and cooking. As we eagerly await the release of these devices, the practical implications of using AI to enhance home cooking remain to be tested. Will it serve as a valuable kitchen aide or simply another overhyped gadget? Only time will tell, but for the passionate home chef, the potential for culinary exploration may just be worth it.