'Please no': Fans outraged by new KFC drive-thru feature

The controversial new ordering system has caused a stir online, but what do you think? Is it the 'way of the future'?

KFC has announced it's trialling a new system at select drive-thru outlets in NSW, which will see AI take customer orders, instead of a human.

The tech-forward feature, manned by an AI assistant called Kacy, is meant to "elevate the restaurant experience for both customers and team members." However, fans online aren't so sure.

To add to the controversy, the same system was axed just months ago in the U.S. by the fast-food chain. 

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Image: 7News

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The new tech-forward system

KFC Australia announced that the AI "voice ordering technology" is just a trial and is currently being tested at five locations across Greater Sydney. 

This includes South Penrith, Wetherill Park, Mt Druitt, Minto and Frenchs Forest.

But don't worry— if you're not keen on getting your order taken (or messed up) by a machine, the fried chicken giant has ensured that customers can still ask for a real employee to take their order at any participating stores. 

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"The new technology is being embraced by team members as it allows more time to prepare food and deliver a great experience for our customers," a KFC spokesperson said.

"As we continue to test and refine this new technology, we are welcoming customer feedback."

They also emphasised that "this trial isn't replacing any jobs."

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"Please no"

The reaction to the announcement has been far from warm, as users have taken to online platforms to voice their concerns.

"No more KFC for me. If they wanna replace humans with AI then they can just have AI customers," said one ex-fan on Facebook.

"Are they going to make the food cheaper?" someone else questioned on TikTok.

And someone else made the point: "This will put a whole lot of teenagers out of jobs."

"Please no," another chicken lover pleaded. 

What do you think of the decision? Tell us in the poll above.

Originally published as 'Please no': Fans outraged by new KFC drive-thru feature