Yum China unveils AI tool in a bid to boost efficiency

Yum China Holdings said on Friday it has launched a new AI-enabled hands-free assistant tool at certain KFC stores in a bid to boost efficiency.

The company, which operates Yum Brands’ franchises including Taco Bell and Pizza Hut, said the tool, named Q-Smart, is aimed at supporting restaurant managers in tasks such as staff scheduling, inventory management, and food quality inspection.

The launch follows its former parent Yum’s AI-driven initiatives, including the Byte by Yum! software it launched in February, aimed at reducing wait times at restaurants and improving delivery times.