DoorDash is rolling out a new feature that will allow customers to order food by texting an AI agent, potentially streamlining the ordering process. The service, currently in testing, aims to reduce the perceived effort of navigating the app by enabling text-based orders through iMessage. Android support is planned for a future release.
The AI agent will reportedly suggest menu items based on a user's past orders and the details provided in their text message. For example, a user could text the AI to request their typical Friday night order, and it would recall previous selections and any common modifications. While convenient, the article notes that this process might involve more steps than simply opening the DoorDash app, which often displays recent orders prominently.
This SMS-based ordering system is reminiscent of earlier food ordering methods. Domino's, for instance, introduced a way to order pizza via emoji text message back in 2015. However, that functionality was limited to a single restaurant.
Interested users on iOS can sign up to test the DoorDash text ordering feature on the company's website. Details regarding the feature's exit from beta testing have not yet been announced. While the necessity of such a feature is questioned, it signifies a continued trend toward increased convenience in food delivery services.