Guide

Recipe Play Mode

Step guidance with timed auto-scroll

What is Play Mode?

Play Mode is a hands-free cooking mode designed to make following recipes easier while you're actively cooking. It displays one step at a time in large, easy-to-read text that's visible from across the kitchen.

Perfect for when your hands are covered in flour or you're busy at the stove, Play Mode keeps the screen active and automatically progresses through recipe steps, so you can focus on cooking without constantly touching your device.

Key Features

Automatic progression: Steps advance automatically after a set time, keeping you on track hands-free

Screen stays active: Prevents screen timeout so you never lose your place

Built-in timers: For steps with durations (e.g., "cook for 10 mins"), tap the timer button to start a countdown

Large text display: Easy to read from a distance while cooking

Progress tracking: Visual indicator shows which step you're on

Activating Play Mode

To enter Play Mode, first open any recipe in your collection. Then follow these simple steps:

Navigate to the recipe's Instructions tab

Look for the Play button (▶️) at the top of the instructions section

Tap the Play button to enter full-screen Play Mode

Your device will switch to a focused, distraction-free cooking view

Using Play Mode

Once in Play Mode, you have multiple ways to navigate through your recipe steps:

Navigation Controls

Automatic progression: Play Mode automatically advances through steps, allowing true hands-free cooking

Next/Previous buttons: Tap the on-screen buttons to manually move forward or backward

Swipe gestures: Swipe left to go to the next step, or right to go back

Progress indicator: A visual bar shows which step you're on and how many remain

Timer Feature

For steps that include cooking times (e.g., "simmer for 10 minutes"), Play Mode provides a convenient timer button:

Look for the timer button (⏱️) on steps with duration instructions

Tap the timer button to start a countdown for that specific step

The timer runs in the background, so you can navigate to other steps if needed

You'll receive a notification when the timer completes

Tips for using Play Mode

Device Placement

Position your device in a safe, visible spot before starting. A cookbook stand, tablet holder, or even propping it against the backsplash works great. Make sure it's far enough from water and heat sources.

Audio Alerts

Keep your device's volume up to hear timer notifications, especially if you're moving around the kitchen or in another room. The audio alert ensures you never miss when a timer completes.

Review Before You Start

Before starting Play Mode, quickly review the full recipe to understand what ingredients and equipment you'll need. This preparation makes the hands-free cooking experience smoother.

Pause When Needed

While Play Mode advances automatically, you can always swipe or tap to move forward or backward at your own pace. Use manual controls when you need more time on a particular step.

Battery Considerations

Since Play Mode keeps the screen on, it uses more battery than normal. For longer recipes, consider keeping your device plugged in or ensure it's fully charged before you start cooking.