McDonald’s is expanding its use of artificial intelligence in restaurants, with a new AI ordering system called Archy that can now take drive-thru orders in English and Spanish with 90% accuracy. According to reports, this technology could save at least 50 labor hours per week at a typical McDonald’s location.
McDonald’s CFO Ian Borden emphasized that the company does not plan to use the system to reduce its workforce. Instead, employees can redirect the saved time to other tasks such as food preparation, customer service, and overall restaurant operations.
In addition to Archy, McDonald’s is deploying ArchIQ, an AI system developed in partnership with Google, to support broader restaurant operations. ArchIQ helps improve order accuracy, inventory management, and staff scheduling. These initiatives are part of McDonald’s broader plan to invest $8.5 billion over the next decade to upgrade its restaurants, including new delivery lockers, kitchen changes, and larger play areas.
CEO Chris Kempczinski noted that customers have responded positively to Archy, appreciating the time savings and improved order accuracy. He added that the company’s strategy is not about labeling technology as good or bad, but about how it is implemented effectively.
The drive-thru is a natural fit for AI assistance. Taking orders can be repetitive, especially during peak hours. Archy handles that task, allowing employees to focus on preparing food, assisting customers, and keeping the restaurant running smoothly.
McDonald’s approach is less about replacing people and more about reallocating their time. The company believes AI can take over routine work while employees handle tasks that require direct human attention.
McDonald’s is also expanding other technologies, such as order-accuracy scales already in use at 10,000 restaurants, with plans to reach 20,000 locations by 2028. Archy and ArchIQ demonstrate how AI is moving from trials to everyday restaurant operations, potentially making small tasks faster and giving employees more time for customer-facing work.