Burger King will use AI to check if employees say 'please' and 'thank you' (www.theverge.com)

Burger King is set to enhance customer interactions with the launch of a voice-enabled AI chatbot named “Patty,” integrated into headsets worn by employees. This initiative, part of the BK Assistant platform, aims to streamline meal preparation while also assessing employee interactions for overall friendliness. The AI will recognize specific phrases, such as “please” and “thank you,” allowing managers to track performance and coach staff, as shared by Burger King’s chief digital officer, Thibault Roux. This move is significant for the AI/ML community as it exemplifies how AI technology can be utilized not only for operational efficiency but also for enhancing customer service experiences in the fast-food industry. The integration of Patty with a cloud-based point-of-sale system allows for real-time updates on inventory and equipment status, showcasing advanced data management capabilities. Although Burger King is still cautiously experimenting with AI drive-thru technology in select locations, its plans to roll out the BK Assistant platform nationwide by 2026 underline a significant trend toward AI-driven solutions in everyday business operations.