Yum! Brands is set to implement artificial intelligence to handle customer orders at 500 Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and KFC locations. Partnering with Nvidia, the fast-food giant will begin rolling out the AI-powered system between April and June, aiming to enhance drive-thru efficiency and restaurant operations. The AI technology will handle complex menu requests, adapt to various speech patterns, and improve customer interactions with personalized responses.
According to Yum! Brands, the AI expansion will also assist employees by managing intricate tasks and optimizing labor efficiency through real-time analytics. Nvidia’s AI has already been tested in select Taco Bell and Pizza Hut locations, showing promising results in improving order accuracy and speed.
Yum! Brands follows in the footsteps of other major fast-food chains experimenting with AI-driven ordering systems. Wendy’s recently announced its plan to expand voice-enabled AI at up to 600 locations after a successful pilot program at nearly 100 restaurants. CEO Kirk Tanner noted that AI enhances customer experiences while improving labor efficiency.
McDonald’s also explored AI ordering but ended its partnership with IBM last July after customer complaints about incorrect orders. Despite this, the company continues to assess voice-ordering solutions while maintaining IBM as a technology partner.
Not all customers have embraced AI-driven ordering. Some have taken to social media to express frustration over its accuracy and reliability. While fast-food chains continue to refine the technology, AI in drive-thrus is quickly becoming a reality, aiming to streamline operations and improve service speed.
