Starbucks plans to test AI ordering at drive-thrus

Starbucks is looking at bringing AI to its drive-thru lanes. CEO Brian Niccol told analysts the company is ready to test AI models running in the background, helping baristas take orders more accurately and quickly.

The goal is to let staff focus on talking with customers and speed up service. Starbucks is also studying tech that can recognize customers when they arrive, show them a personalized digital menu, and make paying easier. Niccol said this is still in early stages—they will test first, then roll out what works.

Big fast-food chains have tested AI at drive-thrus for years, but it hasn't caught on widely. Burger King won't roll out its pilot AI ordering system on a large scale, saying customers prefer talking to people. McDonald's says its own system saves each store dozens of hours of labor every week.

Starbucks' latest earnings beat market expectations, showing its strategy of upgrading stores and improving service is working.