Taco Bell to roll out AI drive-thru ordering

Yum Brands plans to implement artificial intelligence in drive-thru lanes at hundreds of Taco Bell locations by the end of the year.

The company announced its expanded rollout of voice AI technology in the U.S., with aspirations to introduce it globally.

This move follows similar efforts by competitors like Wendy’s and White Castle, though Yum Brands’ approach is notably ambitious.

The technology aims to improve order accuracy, speed up service, reduce labor costs, and enhance customer satisfaction, CNBC has reported.

While McDonald’s recently ended its trial of AI technology, Yum Brands has seen positive results from its pilot programs, including a successful test at over 100 Taco Bell locations and five KFC restaurants in Australia.

The company’s second-quarter earnings report is expected on Tuesday.

Written by B.C. Begley