McDonald’s is testing humanoid robots that can deliver food directly to customers at some locations, reports Interesting Engineering. Developed with robotics and AI technology, these robots are designed to navigate restaurant spaces, carry trays, and interact with guests, potentially improving efficiency and service speed.
The initiative reflects broader efforts by fast‑food chains to integrate automation and reduce reliance on human labor for routine tasks, though human staff will still oversee operations and customer service. They write:
A McDonald’s restaurant in China has shown how technology could change the fast food industry, after deploying AI-powered humanoid robots to serve meals, greet customers, and interact with diners in real time. […]
Some of the humanoid robots can be seen entertaining the customers. Children, in particular, are shown chasing after the smaller robotic units moving around the restaurant. […]
Meanwhile, a new study suggests that robots are pushing low-skilled workers off the career ladder, making it harder for them to move up, switch jobs, or earn higher wages. It was carried out by Pinar Yildirim, PhD, an associate professor of marketing, and researchers from top institutions including Wharton and UCLA. […]
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