Starbucks explores facial recognition for personalized menus and payments

pcmag.com —

Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol said the company is exploring facial recognition technology to recognize customers, show personalized menus, and streamline payments, though the tech is in early stages. The world’s largest coffee chain discussed the potential during its latest earnings call, with Niccol noting plans to “test, learn and scale what works.” Starbucks also plans to test AI background models for drive-thru order accuracy in fiscal 2027. Consumers have voiced opposition on social media, calling the idea “intrusive.” Starbucks did not explicitly name facial recognition in the call, and similar AI menu testing is underway at Yum Brands, owner of Taco Bell.


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