McDonald's is testing a new ordering system in its drive-thrus, and customers are not happy about it. Two years after scrapping AI-powered voice ordering due to errors, the fast food giant is trying again with an entirely new system called Archy IQ. Developed in partnership with Google, the system is currently being tested in five stores across the United States.
What Is Archy IQ?
Announced at the McDonald's Worldwide Convention in Las Vegas, Archy IQ is part of the McDonald's Next initiative, which aims to make McDonald's the first choice for customers. According to a franchisee known as @McFranchisee on X (formerly Twitter), the system has processed over one million transactions, with roughly 90% completed without needing human intervention. The franchisee also claimed that every McDonald's in the US is getting Google Edge Cloud blades installed in anticipation of a nationwide rollout.
A video shared by @McFranchisee demonstrated how Archy IQ works, showing three ordering scenarios: two in English and one in Spanish. In one scenario, the system processed an order based solely on the customer saying "the usual." On TikTok, user @jmvfamily.mcd claimed the system can recognize customers as they drive up, remember their orders, and even acknowledge their birthdays.
Public Reaction
Dozens of McDonald's fans voiced their displeasure on social media. Denise Velarde commented, "No one wants this – we like dealing with smiling faces." @McFranchisee clarified that human interaction remains at the cash and present window, but the sentiment was echoed by others. @NyghtWyng wrote, "We all hate the system installed at Wendy's. We hate the kiosks at McDonald's, Wendy's, and Taco Bell that we are asked to use instead of talking to a person. We will hate this too. Say goodbye to customers."
@TexasSportsFann added, "This sucks a**. The AI drive-thru at every restaurant I've been to sucks." @leftyslayer expressed concerns about job losses, stating, "Today AI ordering, tomorrow robotic AI meal making. All of the workers will be out of work in no time." @LunaSpaceKitty remarked, "No wonder people are lonelier than ever now. Can't even order a meal and talk to someone anymore."
Some customers were unsettled by the system's ability to greet returning customers, with @kirbypway1001 posting, "It said welcome back like it has facial recognition or something. That's scary." However, not all feedback was negative. Some users called the technology "interesting," "fascinating," and "exciting." @DeepPur10997021 stated, "Can't wait until you get this up and working. Then you can roll it out everywhere. Jobs are changing, and this is one of the changes that need to happen."
Will Archy IQ Come to the UK?
McDonald's has not confirmed international plans, but if the US trial proves successful, the system could expand to other countries, including the UK. The timeline for rollout beyond the five test stores remains unclear. Metro has contacted McDonald's UK for comment.
