YouTube Brings AI to TV, Hugh Grant Slams AI, Chalamet & McConaughey Predict AI's Future, & AMC Shuts Down An AI Film
MAN AND ROBOTS: Weekly signals on how AI and automation are reshaping work & creativity.
FEB. 20, 2026
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1. YouTube is bringing one of its AI experiments to traditional TV screens. In 2023, YouTube began testing a feature called Ask About This Video, which allows viewers to click a button underneath a video on computers and mobile devices and engage an AI chatbot that will answer detailed questions about whatever is in the video. This week, YouTube began rolling the feature out to TV sets (where roughly 36% of YouTube viewers consume content). Users will now have the option of using the on-screen interface to ask questions, or if their smart TV remote offers a microphone button, users will be able to ask their questions verbally.
What It Means: We haven’t seen many trailers, movie reviews, or interview videos offering the feature. However, for documentaries and how-to videos, the feature is already delivering value in the realm of deeper context on what you’re viewing. If you want to sample it, we’ve confirmed that MrBeast videos have the feature enabled.
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2. “I think the best scenario for AI is that it destroys millions of jobs with the prosperity, dignity, and community that goes with them. The worst scenario is the destruction of the human race, a fear openly expressed by an increasing number of senior and experienced AI engineers who are leaving the industry. And somewhere in between, a myriad of horrors, such as yet more screen learning and screen addiction for our children. But I do see that it will make rich men even richer. And that’s the most important thing, of course.”
-Hugh Grant, actor, Heretic, Notting Hill
