A TV that really listens: smart AI-powered search on the Telenet TV-box
Mechelen – 15 December 2026. Finding your favorite TV and streaming content That’s what Telenet delivers. After introducing the renewed TV menu in October, Telenet now adds advanced AI technology to voice control. Customers can search using natural, everyday language and receive all results in a conventient, visual overview. With these innovations, Telenet helps viewers effortlessly navigate the growing range of TV and streaming apps.
In 2019, Telenet became the first Belgian telecom provider to launch voice search. Now, it is the first to add AI technology to it. This upgrade is essential, as the entertainment offering is becoming increasingly complex and viewers struggle to find their way. With this innovation, Telenet responds to the growing demand for convenience, personalization, and intuitive viewing experiences. Customers can search not only across all TV content but also within entertainment packages and streaming services*. Discovering movies and series has never been easier.
How does smart search work?
Customers with a Telenet TV-box have long been able to search by speaking simple commands into their remote control. The voice function is used 200,000 times per week to search by title, actor name, or to navigate to, for example, a specific channel.
But with the addition of AI, you can now, for the first time in Belgium, ask detailed and natural questions to your Telenet TV-box. Simply ask your question in everyday language, and AI translates it into a smart search based on themes, genres, actors, or even locations. Results are presented clearly and visually, making choosing and discovering even easier.
Examples of search queries:
- “I’m looking for a funny movie starring Tom Hanks.”
- “Which series is suitable for a 2-year-old toddler?”
- “Show me the movie where someone says: ‘May the Force be with you.’”
Beta launch in 2025, full rollout in 2026
The smart search feature will go live later this year in a Dutch-language beta test. Customers can sign up to be among the first to try the new feature and help build the ultimate viewing experience. In 2026, Telenet will roll out the new search function to all Telenet customers with a Telenet TV-box.
Telenet as a trendsetter
With smart search, Telenet puts an end to endless searching for TV or streaming content. Telenet is not just introducing an upgrade but setting a new standard. Once again, Telenet confirms our position as an innovator in TV and entertainment technology.
*At this stage, not all streaming services are integrated into the smart search feature.