Starbucks considers bringing AI to drive-thru to improve order accuracy and service speed

Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol said on an analyst call that the company plans to test an AI model running in the background to help baristas enter drive-thru orders more accurately and efficiently, allowing employees to focus on interacting with customers and improving service speed. Starbucks is also researching an identification technology that would recognize customers who opt into the service when they arrive at the store, display a personalized digital menu and simplify the payment process. Niccol said the work is still at an early stage and will be tested before being rolled out.