drive-thru

4 Changes Coming To McDonald’s Drive-Thrus In 2026

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McDonald's drive-thrus will see significant changes in 2026, focusing on increased efficiency and customer satisfaction. Key updates include AI-driven order accuracy checks, the introduction of AI chatbots for taking orders, expanded multi-lane drive-thrus to enhance speed, and the growth of the Ready on Arrival program utilizing geo-fencing technology to reduce wait times. These advancements aim to boost overall performance and customer experience at McDonald's locations.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/4-changes-coming-mcdonalds-drive-190300006.html

Vox AI Integrates Drive-thru Payments Through Adyen Partnership

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Vox AI partnered with Adyen to launch Vox AI Pay, enabling drive-thru card payments directly at order terminals, improving transaction speed and reducing queues. The system integrates with major point-of-sale platforms, supports cashless payments, and aims to decrease processing fees. It will be demonstrated at the National Retail Federation Big Show 2026. Vox AI develops voice automation technology for quick-service restaurants, addressing labor challenges.

https://www.fdiforum.net/mag/featured/vox-ai-integrates-drive-thru-payments-through-adyen-partnership/

AI and Robotics Are Powering a New Predictive Age in QSR

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QSR industry entering “Predictive Shift,” moving from reactive to anticipatory service via AI and robotics. This transformation focuses on sustainable kitchens, relevant menus, faster drive-thru experiences, and enhancing human connection in service. As data usage increases, QSRs will streamline operations and personalize customer interactions, setting a new standard in hospitality.

https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/ai-and-robotics-are-powering-a-new-predictive-age-in-qsr/

The Rise of Digital Menus: How McDonald’s Drive-Thru Kiosks Boost Sales

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McDonald's digital transformation in the QSR industry, featuring self-ordering kiosks and AI-powered menus, enhances efficiency, customer engagement, and sales. Digital menus allow real-time updates, vibrant visuals, and tailored promotions, improving decision-making and reducing errors. Kiosks boost average order values, customization, and satisfaction. This seamless experience positions McDonald's as a market leader, and ongoing innovations signify a future trend towards more automated, personalized ordering systems.

https://vocal.media/journal/the-rise-of-digital-menus-how-mc-donald-s-drive-thru-kiosks-boost-sales

Hi Auto and Bojangles Reveal Game-Changing Voice AI Features at Global Payments Genius Conference

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Bojangles and Hi Auto showcased new Voice AI features at the Global Payments Genius Conference, enhancing drive-thru efficiency across nearly 500 restaurants. Innovations include real-time order confirmation, dual-lane accuracy using car images, and local data processing for reliability, raising heightened automation standards in the QSR industry with improved service speed and order accuracy.

https://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/hi-auto-and-bojangles-reveal-game-changing-voice-ai-features-at-global-payments-genius-conference/

Why Bojangles’ Voice AI Rollout Is a Blueprint for Operational Innovation, Not Just Automation

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Bojangles and Hi Auto's Voice AI rollout exemplifies practical innovation in drive-thrus, moving beyond typical automation failures. This system, operational at nearly 500 locations, emphasizes speed and reliability, integrating smoothly with existing systems to enhance customer service. High performance metrics (93% order completion, 96% accuracy) showcase its operational efficiency, prompting franchisee adoption not from novelty but from proven results. Voice AI is transitioning from a novelty to essential infrastructure, enabling the quick-service restaurant industry to enhance its responsiveness in a competitive landscape.

https://www.citybiz.co/article/779768/why-bojangles-voice-ai-rollout-is-a-blueprint-for-operational-innovation-not-just-automation/

Taco Bell Is Once Again the Fastest Drive-Thru in America

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Taco Bell has maintained its title as the fastest drive-thru in America for five years, with continued sales growth and the implementation of advanced AI technologies to enhance customer experience. The brand is focusing on speed, accuracy, and hospitality while integrating innovations like Voice AI and loyalty programs. Taco Bell's drive-thru strategy emphasizes technology to improve operational efficiency and customer interaction, promising a future of intuitive and memorable service experiences.

https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/taco-bell-is-once-again-the-fastest-drive-thru-in-america/

Chick-fil-A Wins on Order Accuracy, Experience at the Drive-thru

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Chick-fil-A leads in drive-thru satisfaction (98%) despite longer wait times (over 7 minutes). Taco Bell topped in speed (average 4:16). Post-pandemic speed improvements have plateaued due to complex transactions like mobile orders. AI-assisted drive-thru orders were 21 seconds faster, yet faced issues with clarity and friendliness. Overall, convenience and speed are prioritized by customers.

https://www.restaurantdive.com/news/intouch-insight-drive-thru-ai-speed-satisfaction-taco-bell-chick-fil-a/801721/

The 2025 QSR® Drive-Thru Report

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QSR drive-thru market shows declining visits with a shift towards dine-in, delivery, and takeout. Consumers prioritize speed, accuracy, and hospitality, influenced by inflation and changing value perceptions. Brands like Taco Bell are leading with tech innovations like AI voice ordering to enhance efficiency while maintaining customer engagement. Drive-thrus need to evolve by improving customer experiences and embracing technology to retain their significance amidst rising competition and changing consumer preferences.

https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/the-2025-qsr-drive-thru-report/

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