Burger King tests AI-headset voice assistant in US stores

It’s designed to help with on-the-ground services and back-of-house operations.

Burger King has launched an AI-powered headset to help restaurant teams with on-the-ground services and back-of-house operations.

BK Assistant is a new AI-powered operations platform designed to bring real-time, voice-enabled intelligence to restaurant teams by unifying POS, kitchen equipment, inventory, and digital ordering into one command centre.

At its core is “Patty”, a voice AI assistant that helps restaurant teams and managers with real-time reminders and alerts. Test scenarios shown in Burger King’s promotional videos include flagging low inventory, guiding staff on recipes, notifying teams when facilities need cleaning, and tracking performance against operational goals.

The AI assistant was also shown instantly removing unavailable items from menu boards and delivery app channels upon a staff member’s request, helping ensure menus remain accurate across all platforms.

The AI-assistant also tracks ‘friendliness scores’. Though Burger King did not say how these will be tracked, several news reports said ‘Patty’ will be able to detect employees using specific keywords like ‘welcome’, ‘please’, and ‘thank you’.

Currently, the Patty is still only being trialled in 500 restaurants in the US.

“The technology referenced relates to a tool currently used in the United States, and there are no plans at this time to introduce this specific programme in Asia, the UK, the Middle East, or Australia. We continue to explore ways AI and technology can support our restaurant teams and enhance the guest experience,” a spokesperson from Burger King said.