Starbucks Corp. is looking into adding artificial intelligence to its drive-thrus.
The coffee chain is preparing to test AI models that operate in the background to help baristas “input orders more accurately and efficiently as they interact with customers,” Chief Executive Officer Brian Niccol said Thursday on a call with analysts. The goal is for workers to focus on talking to customers while improving speed.
Starbucks is also exploring technology that could recognize participating customers as they arrive. The company could then show them personalized digital menus and make payment easier.
“We’re early in this work and we’ll test, learn and scale what works,” Niccol said.
Large chains have tested AI in the drive-thru for years, but it hasn’t yet reached mass adoption across the industry. Burger King has no plans for a broader rollout of the AI ordering system it’s piloting, saying customers prefer to talk to humans. McDonald’s is testing its own version, which it says could free up dozens of labor hours per restaurant each week for other tasks.
Starbucks on Thursday reported earnings that surpassed expectations as a plan focused on restaurant upgrades, hospitality and new menu items continues to drive results.
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Published on October 30, 2026
