Burger King is conducting trials of AI-powered headsets designed to assist employees by reciting recipes, alerting managers to low inventory, and even tracking the use of polite language like "please" and "thank you." The parent company, Restaurant Brands International, announced the test of these OpenAI-powered devices across 500 U.S. locations.
The system, named "Patty," communicates with staff via the headset, providing operational data and alerts. For instance, it can notify a manager if the Diet Coke supply is low or if a customer reports a messy bathroom via QR code. Employees can also ask Patty for recipe instructions or update digital menus for out-of-stock items.
Regarding the tracking of courtesy words, Burger King emphasized the technology is intended as a coaching tool to reinforce hospitality, not to score or monitor individuals. The company stated it aims to give managers real-time insights to better recognize their teams.
This initiative is part of a broader BK Assistant platform rolling out nationwide later this year. Burger King joins other fast-food chains like Yum Brands and McDonald's in exploring AI applications to enhance restaurant operations and customer service.