The next time you give your local Jersey Mike's Subs shop a call, don't be too surprised if the voice that answers the phone doesn't sound completely human.
The fast-growing sandwich chain just announced that it has rolled out an artificial intelligence voice ordering system in partnership with SoundHound AI, Inc. at 50 of its locations.
Customers can now place orders over the phone at those locations by conversing with AI rather than a living, breathing Jersey Mike's employee.
Jersey Mike's is only the latest fast-food chain to incorporate AI into its business in a bid to improve operations and the customer experience.
McDonald's, for example, has been testing AI-powered voice bots at select drive-thrus, but the technology seems to have a few kinks. Viral TikTok videos have shown the voice bots messing up orders in frustrating, head-scratching, and sometimes hilarious encounters.
Jersey Mike's new AI voice ordering system was "optimized for natural human speech" so customers "won't have to modify their language or interact awkwardly with the software," the announcement said.
In addition to taking orders, the SoundHound system can answer a variety of frequently asked questions about Jersey Mike's menu, specials, promotions, store hours, parking, and allergens.
"Significantly, this frees up Jersey Mike's employees to focus on making delicious food and giving great service to in-store customers," the announcement noted.