ICYMI: McDonalds concludes AI drive-thru testing after alleged ordering errors

Whether you call it a boon or a bane, artificial intelligence (AI) is gradually taking over the world. Today, you will see extensive use of technology, where human intelligence is duplicated using machines, thereby speeding up the overall workflow. So much so that the food and hospitality industry is investing heavily in AI to increase efficiency – fast food giant McDonald’s is one example. Over the years, we've heard news stories of how the chain was experimenting with technology to speed up its process. However, recently, McDonald's reportedly pulled one of its AI-based pilots after repeated errors.

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According to a CNN report, McDonald's has decided to withdraw its AI-based drive-thru voice ordering system, which is currently being tested in more than 100 restaurants in the United States. The report further states that this action may have been taken after an alleged complaint from a social media user went viral, showing that the system was picking up the wrong orders from cars, producing bizarre food combinations and more Again.

McDonald's has stopped testing a voice assistant for ordering due to customer complaints. It was produced in collaboration with IBM.

One of the examples is in this TikTok video which shows that the AI ​​ends each sentence with an interrogative intonation pic.twitter.com/xQtTVpw4in– AI Optimist (@AI__Optimist) June 20, 2024

CNBC reports that in a statement, McDonald's explained the end of its partnership with “IBM on AOT (automated order taking).” “The technology will be discontinued in all restaurants currently testing it no later than July 26, 2024,” the statement said, adding that they would, however, continue to use other IBM products throughout the system.

Fox Business estimates that McDonald's has partnered with IBM in 2021 to begin drive-thru AI testing to determine whether the technology can “simplify operations for the crew and create a faster, improved experience.”

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Following McDonald's announcement about the conclusion of AI drive-thru trials, people took to social media to share their thoughts on using AI-based solutions.

“McDonald's halts AI drive-thru trial. More than 100 locations abandon automated ordering systems. Are AI-based solutions the future of fast food, or just a passing trend?” an article on social media platform X read.

One comment read: “This is very disappointing on many levels.”

One person wrote: “You can't replace everything with AI. Even if you use AI, there should be human intervention. »

Another comment read: “A human touch is still the best option. »