Wendy's and Google team up for AI-powered drive-thru service.

Wendy's is partnering with Google Cloud to bring AI technology to one of its Columbus-area restaurants. The AI tool, called Wendy's FreshAI, will be powered by Vertex AI and large language models, and will be able to have conversations with customers, generate responses to questions, and understand order requests. The pilot launch will take place in June, and Wendy's plans to use the findings to enhance the experience in future expansions at more restaurant locations. Approximately three-quarters of customers prefer using drive-thru service, and the Wendy's FreshAI tool can help improve that process for both customers and employees.