Starbucks said it will pilot backend AI models in drive‑thrus to help baristas
record orders more accurately and efficiently during customer interactions, CEO
Brian Niccol said. The company is also exploring customer‑identification tech to
surface personalized digital menus on arrival and simplify payments. Industry
peers are testing similar systems: Burger King has no plans for a wider rollout
of its pilot, citing customer preference for human interaction, while McDonald’s
said its trials could save each restaurant dozens of staff hours per week.
