this post was submitted on 30 Sep 2026
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McDonald's is reportedly using AI to "dynamically" price its burgers (www.engadget.com)
submitted 5 days ago* (last edited 5 days ago) by spaghettiwestern@sh.itjust.works to c/technology@lemmy.world
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McDonald's has been using artificial intelligence to dynamically price menu items in the US and some global markets, according to a report by Reuters. This involves finding the "optimal price" to match what a particular store's patrons would be willing to pay.

This fluctuates according to location, and even stores in the same city can have different cost amounts for the same exact items, according to information reviewed by Reuters. This is basically surge pricing, like with ride-share platforms, but for hockey puck burgers that have been sitting under a hot lamp.

Reuters got a look at the interface that franchisees use to access this technology and it's pretty creepy. Messages show stuff like "your restaurant is showing MEDIUM SENSITIVITY to price" based on "customer willingness to pay in your area." Cost differences at nearby locations can be stark. Researchers found that a Bic Mac at a Fresno, California store cost $5.69, but the same burger cost $6.89 at another branch two miles down the road. That's a 21 percent difference.

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[–] EmilieEasie@fedinsfw.app 2 points 5 days ago (1 children)

Why do you think that? I didn't say anything about current events or politics and this new AI story only confirms a decision I already made and am guessing most other people already made

[–] acosmichippo@lemmy.world 2 points 4 days ago (1 children)

most people have definitely not stopped going to mcdonalds. that's what i'm talking about.

[–] EmilieEasie@fedinsfw.app 1 points 4 days ago

That's a fine counterclaim, and we could dig into that more if you want to, but where did politics and current events come into it? AI maybe if you misunderstood my first comment but IDK about the other two at all