McDonald's Tests ArchIQ AI at 5 Restaurants as It Revives Automation Push
Updated
Updated · AL.com · Jun 15
McDonald's Tests ArchIQ AI at 5 Restaurants as It Revives Automation Push
3 articles · Updated · AL.com · Jun 15
Summary
Five McDonald’s locations are testing the new ArchIQ drive-thru AI system, part of the broader McDonald’s Next strategy unveiled this month.
ArchIQ’s assistant, “Archy,” is designed to streamline kitchen operations and cut in-store workload so staff can spend more time with customers.
The rollout marks McDonald’s return to restaurant AI after it scrapped an earlier automated ordering system in 2024 following customer complaints about order errors.
Chris Kempczinski tied the push to rising inflation and tougher competition, arguing McDonald’s must improve hospitality and value even as more of the customer journey becomes automated.
Corporate headquarters set the Next framework, but local markets will decide how to execute it, following several senior U.S. operations and technology appointments earlier in 2026.