Taco Bell Expands AI Drive-Thrus to Hundreds

T Taco Bell is expanding its use of artificial intelligence (AI) voice technology to hundreds of U.S. drive-thru locations by the end of 2024. This technology, already in place at over 100 locations in 13 states, aims to enhance order accuracy, reduce wait times, and ease the workload of employees, allowing them to focus on customer service. Yum! Brands, Taco Bell's parent company, also plans to test this technology at KFC locations in Australia, with potential future applications across all its brands, including Pizza Hut. Despite skepticism and mixed results from competitors like McDonald's, Taco Bell is confident in the effectiveness of its AI after two years of testing. The company asserts that AI will not replace workers but will improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.