DoorDash launches AI agent for ordering food via text message
DoorDash has introduced an AI agent that lets users order food by texting through Apple Messages. The company is also starting drone delivery tests with select restaurants in Northern California.
Food delivery company DoorDash announced on Wednesday a new feature that lets customers place orders simply by sending a text message through Apple Messages. The system relies on an AI agent capable of understanding casual requests — for instance, if a user writes "order my usual," the agent recognizes this as their regular Friday night order.
How the new feature works
Users can also request a specific dish or ask for a recommendation from nearby restaurants. In that case, the AI agent searches local spots, builds a cart based on the request, and even sends photos of the recommended food. When placing an order for a group, the agent can account for different dietary preferences and varying quantities within a single combined order.
Competitive context
With this update, DoorDash is aiming to gain an advantage over rivals Uber Eats and Grubhub. The launch fits into a broader trend of companies rolling out personal AI agents that allow users to complete everyday tasks without navigating separate apps or websites.
For now, DoorDash has opened a waitlist exclusively for users in the United States who want to try the new feature. Alongside the AI agent launch, the company also announced it will begin testing delivery drones in partnership with select restaurants in Northern California.
