COLUMBUS, Ohio — Wendy’s is partnering with Google Cloud to pilot a new AI system that will automate drive-thru ordering.
The system will use Google’s generative AI technology to understand customer orders and generate responses to frequently asked questions. The pilot will launch in June at Wendy’s restaurant in Columbus, Ohio, and will be used to inform future expansions to more Wendy’s drive-thrus.
The new system is designed to make the drive-thru experience more efficient and convenient for customers. It will also free up employees to focus on other tasks, such as preparing food and providing customer service.
“Wendy’s has always been at the forefront of innovation, and we’re thrilled to build upon our partnership with the company with our new generative AI technologies,” said Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud. “Generative AI is fundamentally changing how people interact with brands, and we anticipate Wendy’s integration of Google Cloud’s generative AI technology will set a new standard for great drive-thru experiences for the quick-service industry.”
Wendy’s is the latest fast food chain to adopt AI technology. McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and KFC have all announced plans to use AI in their restaurants in recent months.
The use of AI in fast food restaurants is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way customers interact with these businesses.