239. Computer Vision and How it could affect the Future of Drive-Thru

The Restaurant Report

White Castle is partnering with SoundHound to roll out voice AI at select drive-thrus. The technology will be added to over 100 White Castle drive-thrus by the end of 2024. Many of these drive-thru lanes will operate 24/7.White Castle initially tested drive-thru AI in 2020 through a partnership with Mastercard. SoundHound provided voice recognition for the trial, while Rekor Systems offered vehicle recognition. This trial served as an “incubation phase” for the companies, and SoundHound now works directly with White Castle.The voice AI technology will allow customers to place their orders through a voice interface. This will free employees to focus on other tasks, such as food preparation and customer service. The technology is also expected to improve the accuracy of orders and reduce wait times.
Additional Information:

• White Castle initially tested drive-thru AI in 2020 through a partnership with Mastercard.
• The voice AI technology is expected to be added to over 100 White Castle drive-thrus by the end of 2024.
• Many of these drive-thru lanes will operate 24/7.
• Computer vision has the potential to significantly improve restaurant drive-thru operations by providing real-time data and alerts to staff.
• Here are three examples of how computer vision could be used to improve restaurant drive-thru operations:
  • License plate recognition
  • Vehicle detection
  • Order Accuracy