McDonald’s is reportedly planning a series of huge upgrades in 2026 with changes to its menu, and enhancements to the drive-thru with new AI technology.
Get ready for a wave of new McDonald’s restaurants across the globe as the chain reportedly aims to open 8,000 new locations by the end of the year, with plans to hit 50,000 in 2027.
These new stores are going to benefit from advancements to the overall experience, as, according to Mashed, the Golden Arches are going to be improving the kitchens and drive-thrus.
McDonald’s turns to AI for drive-thru and kitchen advancements
As reported by Mashed, the chain is set to overhaul its kitchens through a major tech push powered by Google Cloud and led by incoming Chief Restaurant Experience Officer Jill McDonald.
The plan introduces AI systems that track equipment health, predict failures before they happen, and dynamically adjust cooking times based on live order flow.
Those tools are designed to cut downtime, speed up service during rushes, and reduce food waste when stores are quieter.
Mashed says these changes will lead to less “machine broken” moments, so customers should be able to enjoy ice cream and other menu items more often.
McDonald’s is also rolling out a revamped AI system in 2026 powered by Google Cloud, designed to cut order errors, speed up service, and spot equipment or order issues before they cause problems, with major upgrades in real-time processing and accuracy even in noisy drive-thrus.
At the same time, the chain is expanding next-gen drive-thrus with up to three lanes and dedicated mobile-order fast lanes, doubling down on a channel that already handles roughly 70% of all McDonald’s orders. 27,000 drive-thru locations are expected to be revamped this way.
This upgraded AI drive-thru experience as other chains have started to move a bit away from AI. Notably, Taco Bell pulled back on its aggressive push for AI-powered drive-thrus after viral clips showed just how easily trolls can break the system.
