Mood Swings? Tell Netflix How You Feel
The streaming giant has quietly begun trials of an AI search assistant that listens not just to what you want, but how you feel. Whether you’re “in the mood for something funny and nostalgic,” or craving “a gritty drama about sisters who bake cookies during an apocalypse,” Netflix’s new tool is being trained to understand your vibe—and serve you titles that match.
This natural language search engine is being piloted in Australia and New Zealand on iOS devices and, according to Netflix, it’s a voluntary test for now. The company plans to roll it out to US audiences over the next few months. Other devices and regions will have to wait their turn—or keep scrolling.
Powered by OpenAI, Driven by Your Feels
The tech behind the magic? OpenAI. Yes, the same folks bringing ChatGPT to life are now helping Netflix fine-tune your movie night. The new search goes beyond basic genre keywords—think less “action” and more “something thrilling but not too scary with a happy ending.” It’s a shift from passive algorithms to active conversation, and it’s all in beta. Netflix calls it the “learn and listen” phase.
For a platform already reliant on machine learning to suggest titles based on what you’ve binged (and re-binged), this marks a bold leap. AI is no longer just silently watching what you watch—it’s asking you how you feel about it.
A Cautious Step into AI’s Entertainment Playground
Interestingly, Netflix isn’t going all-in just yet. Unlike previous features that were pushed globally in one swoop, the company is treating this AI upgrade with caution—perhaps aware of the broader concerns about AI in creative industries. The feature is opt-in, meaning only curious and willing users are invited to test this brave new way of searching. While it’s still early days, one thing is certain: the age of robotic movie night indecision may soon be behind us. No more desperate group texts saying, “Just pick something!” With AI in your pocket, Netflix might just become your chill, intuitive couch buddy. So, the next time you sigh and whisper, “I want something light but deep with a touch of absurdity,” don’t be surprised if your screen lights up with the perfect watch. The future of streaming isn’t just smarter—it might finally understand you.