The Jersey Mike's Subs chain has equipped 50 stores with an artificial intelligence system from SoundHound AI. This new technology allows customers to phone in their takeout orders without speaking to a real person.
Besides taking orders, the new AI system at Jersey Mike's can also provide information that customers usually get from staff, like details on special offers, parking availability, and allergen-free options.
SoundHound AI, the company behind the technology, says it can manage all the calls a store receives and handle several orders simultaneously. They claim this system reduces order mistakes since it removes the possibility of human error.
Jersey Mike's Unveils User-Friendly AI Voice Ordering System
Jersey Mike's has introduced a new AI voice ordering system designed to understand natural human speech, making it easy for customers to order without changing how they talk or feeling uncomfortable with the software.
This system, created by SoundHound AI, is fully trained on the entire Jersey Mike's menu and uses advanced AI to recognize menu items instantly as customers speak. This advancement aims to offer a smoother AI experience at Jersey Mike's compared to other chains.
Keyvan Mohajer, CEO and co-founder of SoundHound AI, explained, "With more customers ordering for pick-up and delivery, restaurants must provide a seamless experience to keep them returning. Technology is key in this, and Jersey Mike's is leading the way in using AI for top-notch customer service, from placing orders to delivering subs. We're thrilled to partner with them in this endeavor."
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Jersey Mike's AI Pilot Aims to Improve In-Store Service
The main goal of Jersey Mike's new AI system is to allow staff to focus more on serving customers inside the store by handling phone orders for takeout. This shift is designed to improve the overall customer experience in their outlets.
Ordering at Jersey Mike's can be quite detailed, with options varying from the type and size of bread to the specific toppings on a sandwich.
The cost and details of this new AI installation, described as a "pilot" by Jersey Mike's, have not been disclosed by either party involved.
Jersey Mike's is joining the ranks of fast-growing food chains exploring artificial intelligence and machine learning. Several major brands are testing similar technologies, including Checkers and White Castle, particularly in their drive-thru services.
The rollout hasn't been entirely smooth despite the excitement around new technology in the fast food industry. McDonald's, for instance, has been experimenting with AI-powered voice assistants in their drive-thrus, but the results have been mixed.
Numerous videos on TikTok highlight instances where these AI bots have made order mistakes. This has led to a mix of reactions from customers, ranging from frustration to humor, as they navigate these tech glitches.
Recent viral videos on TikTok have showcased some of the issues with voice bots at fast food restaurants, leading to various reactions from confusion to laughter among customers.
In one notable video posted by TikTok user @zurlock, an AI system at a Wendy's drive-thru incorrectly added an unsweetened tea to the order, even though the customer asked for a sweet tea.
These incidents highlight the sometimes unpredictable nature of these new AI technologies in the fast food industry.
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