drive-thru

Presto Raises $10 Million to Scale Voice AI Deployments as Restaurant Drive-Thru Automation Enters Its “Prove It” Era

,

Presto raised $10 million to enhance voice AI for drive-thru automation, shifting focus from novelty to consistent deployment in QSRs. The funding reflects a market trend towards operationally-grounded solutions, emphasizing order accuracy and speed. After struggling financially in 2024, Presto refocused on enterprise-grade voice ordering and strategic partnerships. The competitive landscape is intensifying, requiring vendors to demonstrate stable, large-scale deployments, and positioning voice AI as core infrastructure amid tech consolidation.

https://restauranttechnologynews.com/2026/01/presto-raises-10-million-to-scale-voice-ai-deployments-as-restaurant-drive-thru-automation-enters-its-prove-it-era/

Creative Realities Launches Digital Drive-Thru 2.0, a Modular, Scalable Solution Designed to Improve Drive-Thru Efficiency and Flexibility

,

Creative Realities launched Digital Drive-Thru 2.0, a modular digital menu board system designed for flexibility and ease of installation in drive-thru environments. This system allows incremental expansions, complies with municipal regulations, and features lightweight design for simplified deployment. It's tailored for quick-service restaurants and similar operators, enhancing operational efficiency while adapting to user needs. Early tests show positive feedback, with a broader rollout planned through 2026.

https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/01/07/3214430/0/en/Creative-Realities-Launches-Digital-Drive-Thru-2-0-a-Modular-Scalable-Solution-Designed-to-Improve-Drive-Thru-Efficiency-and-Flexibility.html

From Voice to Touch: Evolution of Ordering With the McDonald’s Drive Thru Kiosk

, ,

McDonald's drive-thru has evolved from voice-based ordering to touch-enabled kiosks, improving accuracy and customer experience. Traditional voice ordering faced issues like miscommunication and longer wait times. The introduction of digital menu boards marked the first automation step, leading to the smart kiosk that allows customization and reduces staff workload. These kiosks enhance accessibility and feed into customer loyalty programs. The future may integrate AI and voice technology for a hybrid experience, redefining convenience in quick-service dining.

https://vocal.media/journal/from-voice-to-touch-evolution-of-ordering-with-the-mc-donald-s-drive-thru-kiosk

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

, ,

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

, , ,

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

, , , , , ,

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

, , , ,

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

,

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

,

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/

Scroll to Top