Fast-food chains expand AI chatbot ordering beyond the drive-thru
By
Emma Roth
A baker's-dozen of insight crammed into one ring.
Summary
McDonald's pioneered AI chatbot ordering at drive-thrus in 2021 after acquiring voice-tech startup Apprente, starting with 10 Chicago locations. The technology is now expanding beyond McDonald's to other fast-food chains like Wendy's and Taco Bell, signaling a broader industry shift toward AI-powered ordering systems that go beyond simple drive-thru interactions.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledIn 2021, McDonald's became one of the first major fast-food chains to greet customers with an AI chatbot at the drive-thru.
McDonald's developed its drive-thru tech after acquiring Apprente, a startup focused on voice-based, conversational tech.
McDonald's, Wendy's, and Taco Bell are ready to take AI beyond the drive-thru.
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