McDonald’s is discontinuing its AI chatbots at drive-thrus, raising concerns about the rush to implement this technology in the fast-food industry. The decision to remove automated order systems from over 100 US locations comes after a partnership with IBM in 2021. While McDonald’s has not given a public reason for the move, franchises have been told the technology will be shut down in July. Other fast-food chains, like Wendy’s and Taco Bell, have embraced AI to cut labor costs. However, viral videos have shown AI systems making mistakes in taking orders, while some companies have faced criticism for outsourcing human labor to support these systems. Despite setbacks, the industry continues to explore AI applications such as digital chatbots and image recognition. McDonald’s collaboration with Google on a chatbot training employees hints at the potential for AI in the future of fast food.