And earlier this week, I talked about McDonald’s ending their AI drive-thru experiment. Well, White Castle is using SoundHound’s voice AI system to take drive-thru orders at 15 restaurants, aiming to free up staff time and ensure customers don’t feel rushed. While voice AI drive-thrus have been tested by other chains like Taco Bell and McDonald’s, widespread adoption is still limited due to mistakes and concerns about job displacement. White Castle plans to expand the use of voice AI in over 100 drive-thru lanes by the end of 2024. The system has improved order accuracy and allowed workers to focus on food preparation and customer service without reducing hours.
KPMG has launched the “AI Impact Initiative” to bring AI technology to non-profits and prepare the future workforce with AI skills. The initiative aims to empower non-profits to maximize the benefits of AI and provide skills-based volunteering. KPMG is collaborating with various organizations and technology partners to implement AI solutions and invest in skills building. The initiative also focuses on preparing students and educators for an AI-powered future. KPMG’s annual U.S. Community Impact Day will include opportunities for AI upskilling.
N-able, Inc. has issued a pledge on the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing consent, transparency, and context. The pledge aims to protect partner data and intellectual property, and the company’s AI strategy focuses on user control, privacy, clear communication, and appropriate use. N-able committed to unlocking AI’s potential responsibly and maintaining an ethical approach with human oversight.
Why do we care?
AI experimentation is what White Castle is doing.. and McDonald’s too. There will be failures, and the key is learning from those.
KPMG is leveraging its position to broaden its reach. Savvy.
I’ll applaud N-Able for releasing their pledge, and would anticipate it’s part of a step to be releasing products under the pledge. Disclosure, I am a shareholder.