McDonald’s is piloting a Google-powered artificial intelligence system to handle drive-thru orders at five U.S. locations, signaling a potential shift away from human interaction at the menu board.
The platform test, dubbed ArchIQ, was revealed at the company’s 2026 worldwide convention, ABC News reported.
Nicknamed “Archy,” the system greets customers, customizes orders and displays finalized totals before directing vehicles to pull forward.
ArchIQ can converse in English and Spanish and remembers repeat visitors who ask for their “usual,” according to a post on X from a McDonald’s franchise owner, who noted that 90% of the AI interactions have been completed without requiring any human intervention.
The automation test aligns with a broader corporate strategy titled “McDonald’s NEXT,” announced on June 1.
In a company memo, Chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski detailed how shifting consumer habits require a higher standard of service as the brand seeks to become consumers’ first choice every time.
“As more of the customer journey becomes automated, there are fewer opportunities for guests to connect with crew,” Kempczinski wrote. “With fewer interactions, the bar for hospitality that makes people feel seen, welcomed and valued only goes up.”
He also noted that navigating unprecedented inflation remains a challenge for the fast-food giant.
“Customers also depend on us for compelling, predictable value,” Kempczinski wrote. “While perceptions of our value have rebounded in most markets, it’s a reminder that we need to earn, and re-earn, each and every visit.”
Food service experts point out that the goal of such tech is generally to reallocate labor rather than to make immediate job cuts.
“You are literally automating a task that was taken by a person,” Restaurant Business Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Maze told ABC News, adding that within 5 to 10 years humans may no longer take McDonald’s orders. “The stated goal that companies use when they use this is to free up an employee’s time to do something else.”
McDonald’s previously halted a separate automated ordering test in 2024 following viral social media posts highlighting inaccurate orders. Despite the setback, the company joins competitors such as Taco Bell and Wendy’s in pursuing AI-driven drive-thrus to streamline logistics.
McDonald’s has not publicly disclosed the 5 locations where ArchIQ is being tested.
McDonald’s did not immediately respond to MassLive’s requests for comment on Tuesday.