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DoorDash Introduces AI-Powered Text Ordering, Drone Delivery Pilot, and Expanded Retail Returns

🔄 Updated 1d ago — new reporting from TechCrunch
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Key points

  • DoorDash introduced AI-powered text message ordering for iOS users in the US.
  • Users can text commands like 'order my usual' or request recommendations.
  • A drone delivery pilot program is also being launched.
  • Dasher retail returns will expand nationwide in November.
  • The text ordering feature builds on the Ask DoorDash AI chatbot capabilities.
  • DoorDash's AI agent can handle mixed dietary preferences and different quantities in group orders.
  • The AI agent can text photos of recommended food.
  • DoorDash opened a waitlist for the new text-to-order feature in the U.S.
  • Drone delivery testing will begin with select restaurants in Northern California.

New Ordering and Delivery Options

DoorDash has announced new ways for users to interact with its local delivery platform, including AI-powered text message ordering, a drone delivery pilot program, and an expansion of retail returns. These features aim to simplify the ordering process and offer more convenience for users.

The text message ordering feature allows users to place food orders, receive recommendations, and reorder past meals by texting an AI bot. This functionality builds upon the capabilities of the Ask DoorDash AI chatbot, which was introduced to the DoorDash app in June.

AI-Powered Text Ordering Details

The AI-powered text ordering system enables users to send specific dish requests, ask for local recommendations based on their mood, or simply text "order my usual" to reorder a favorite meal. The system searches local restaurants, scans menus, and suggests a cart, even sending photos of recommended food items.

This feature is currently available for iOS users in the US, who can join a waitlist to access the beta experience. DoorDash stated that ordering is now as easy as sending a text, with the AI learning user preferences for future orders.

Expanded Services

In addition to text ordering, DoorDash is launching a drone delivery pilot program. The company also confirmed that its Dasher retail returns service will expand nationwide starting in November.

Simplifying User Experience

The new features are designed to offer alternative ways to engage with DoorDash, allowing users to bypass the app for certain interactions. The AI agent handles the search and checkout process directly within the text thread, aiming to provide a more streamlined experience for placing orders and managing deliveries.

Updates

🕒 2026-09-30 · new reporting from TechCrunch
  • DoorDash's AI agent can handle mixed dietary preferences and different quantities in group orders.
  • The AI agent can text photos of recommended food.
  • DoorDash opened a waitlist for the new text-to-order feature in the U.S.
  • Drone delivery testing will begin with select restaurants in Northern California.

✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →

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How outlets covered it

DoorDash introduced an AI agent allowing users to order food through Apple Messages using text prompts like "order my usual" or requesting specific dishes. This initiative aims to differentiate DoorDash from competitors like Uber Eats and Grubhub by offering a conversational ordering experience.

DoorDash launched a new feature allowing users to order food via text within Apple's Messages app, powered by an AI agent. This aims to simplify the ordering process by enabling users to text cravings, receive recommendations, and manage orders without opening the DoorDash app.

DoorDash is launching new features including AI-powered text message ordering, a drone delivery pilot program, and expanded retail returns. These updates aim to offer more ways for users to interact with the platform and manage deliveries and returns.