Starbucks Partners with Microsoft to Accelerate Service Using AI Technology

Starbucks is set to introduce a generative AI tool, named Green Dot Assist, at 35 locations in the US and Canada to enhance barista efficiency and reduce service times to four minutes per order. CEO Brian Niccol envisions this tool will enable baristas to access quick answers on beverage preparation and equipment troubleshooting through conversational queries via a tablet located behind the counter. This will replace the current need to consult manuals or the intranet. Future capabilities aim to allow baristas to automatically create IT tickets for equipment issues and suggest substitutes for absent colleagues. The AI assistant, powered by Microsoft Azure’s OpenAI platform, was unveiled at the Starbucks Leadership Experience in Las Vegas on June 10, 2025. Other technologies showcased included new espresso machines and an updated point-of-sale system. Green Dot Assist is scheduled for rollout in fiscal 2026, beginning in September 2025.

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