Skip to main content

Manual vs Dynamic Playlists

Learn the difference between Manual and Dynamic Playlists in Tolstoy, when to use each type, and how to apply them to legacy widgets or AI widget projects.

Written by Niezl

Introduction

Tolstoy now supports two playlist types: Manual Playlists and Dynamic Playlists.

Manual Playlists help merchants hand-pick exact media and tag products manually. Dynamic Playlists help merchants build smarter AI widgets by setting rules and filters directly inside the project.
​

Creating playlists does not require a paid plan. Publishing widgets that use playlists may depend on your Tolstoy plan and publishing access.
​

Start Our Interactive Demo 💫


​
​Dynamic Set UP Options:

  • Show media for each product - Displays the most relevant media for the product being viewed. Each product page may show different media based on the product tags.

    Best for: Product page playlists and PDP Stories.

  • Show media tagged to any product - Displays approved media that is tagged to at least one product. The media does not need to match the product page currently being viewed.

    Best for: Playlists featuring shoppable or product-related content from across your store.

  • Show all approved media - Displays all approved media in the playlist, regardless of product tags. The same media selection can appear on every page. Click Customize to adjust which approved media is included.

    Best for: Homepage playlists, general content galleries, and brand campaigns.

  • Set custom rules - Lets you create specific rules that determine which media appears. Use this option when you need more control over the playlist’s content.

    Best for: Campaigns, selected collections, or playlists with specific media requirements.
    ​

Best Practices

  • Use Manual Playlists when you need full control over exact videos and product tagging.

  • Use Dynamic Playlists for AI widgets that should update based on rules or filters.

  • Use clear playlist names so your team can tell which playlists are manual and which are dynamic.

  • For AI widget projects, use Dynamic Playlists whenever possible.

  • If you need to use a Manual Playlist, use Manual edit → Playlist → Select playlist.

Troubleshooting / FAQs

Why can’t I find my Manual Playlist inside an AI widget project?
Manual Playlists do not appear in the playlist search inside AI widget projects. Use Manual edit → Playlist → Select playlist instead.

Which playlist type should I use for AI widgets?
Use Dynamic Playlists. They are designed for the newer AI widget flow.

Are Manual Playlists still supported?
Yes. Manual Playlists are still available, but they are mainly used for older or legacy widgets.

Can I still apply filters to a Manual Playlist?
Yes. Open Manual edit, choose Playlist, select the playlist, and apply filters if needed.

What is the main difference between Manual and Dynamic Playlists?
Manual Playlists are built by manually selecting media. Dynamic Playlists are built with rules and filters that control which media is included.

Did this answer your question?