Taco Bell Faces Drive-Thru AI Backlash as New Digital Deals Kick Off

September 1, 2025 - Irvine, Calif.

Taco Bell is rethinking its ambitious rollout of an AI-powered drive-thru ordering system after widespread performance issues surfaced in more than 500 locations nationwide. Users have exploited the system’s limitations by placing prank orders-most notably, requests for 18,000 cups of water-which have gone viral and strained customer service operations. Chief Digital and Technology Officer Dane Matthews acknowledged in an interview with AIbase that the technology “sometimes disappoints, but sometimes it really surprises,” and confirmed that Taco Bell will allow franchisees to choose between AI and human order takers during peak hours to ensure a reliable customer experience and protect wait-time efficiency.

Meanwhile, Taco Bell’s September digital deal calendar officially takes effect today. Rewards members can now enjoy 5% off every Uber One Student order throughout the month (capped at $9 savings per order), and-for orders placing a Regular Baja Midnight Freeze on DoorDash-customers receive $3 off purchases of $22 or more. These offers mark the latest wave of Taco Bell’s “Tuesday Drops” and in-app promotions designed to drive traffic during traditionally slower business periods.