Taco Bell plans to launch voice automation chatbots in hundreds of stores by the end of this year, signaling the entry of artificial intelligence (AI) into the fast-food industry. Yum! Brands, the parent company, has announced the adoption of this technology, which could bring significant changes to the fast-food and hospitality sectors. Yum! Brands also owns other well-known brands such as KFC, Pizza Hut, and Habit Burger Grill. The fast-food company stated that it hopes to "implement voice AI technology in its global brand's drive-thru restaurants in the future." Voice AI technology will be deployed in over 100 Taco Bell drive-thru restaurants across 13 states. However, it is currently unclear which regions will be the first to adopt this technology, and whether it will replace human employees. The team stated that this launch is "aimed at improving the backend operational efficiency of team members and providing consumers with a better ordering experience." The company hopes that this technology will alleviate "the workload of team members," improve order accuracy, provide a "consistent and friendly experience," and reduce waiting times. According to the press release, the parent company and Taco Bell have collaborated over the past two years to test and improve this technology. They stated that they have taken into account the feedback from franchisees, so this tool can benefit the entire team and its customers. Yum! Brands' KFC has already begun testing AI in Australia. Dane Mathews, Chief Digital and Technology Officer of Taco Bell, said, "Innovation is deeply rooted in Taco Bell's DNA, and we believe that voice AI is one way to improve the experience for both team members and consumers. "Using AI can lighten the workload of team members, allowing them to focus more on front-end reception work. At the same time, it can unlock new and meaningful ways of interacting with our customers." Another brand under the parent company, KFC, is also undergoing AI transformation, with five restaurants in Australia currently testing this technology. It is said that so far, this technology has received positive feedback from customers and restaurant staff.