DoorDash’s new AI chatbot lets you order with prompts and photos

DoorDash has unveiled an innovative AI chatbot, named “Ask DoorDash,” designed to enhance the food and grocery ordering experience. Announced on Thursday, this feature allows users to place orders using natural language prompts and even photos, simplifying the shopping process significantly. Rather than scrolling through numerous restaurants and stores, users can now describe what they’re craving or share a recipe link to locate the necessary items. DoorDash emphasizes that traditional search methods are most effective when users know exactly what they're looking for. However, “Ask DoorDash” caters to those moments of uncertainty, making it easier to find what you need. The rise of AI in food delivery apps is part of a broader trend where companies are striving to make shopping more conversational and personalized. In recent months, competitors such as Uber Eats and Instacart have also introduced AI-powered features to enhance customer experiences. With DoorDash's new capability, users can build a grocery cart simply by uploading a photo of a recipe or a handwritten grocery list. The AI will then automatically compile the items and their quantities, even reminding customers to check their pantry for staples they might already have. For dining choices, users can ask the chatbot for suggestions such as, “I need a filling dinner for a family of four.” The app will respond with tailored restaurant options, complete with personalized descriptions explaining the relevance of each choice. Users can further refine their search by specifying preferences, such as looking for kid-friendly vegetarian restaurants with mild dishes. In addition to food orders, the AI feature assists with restaurant reservations. Users can request a “table for two downtown for a date-night dinner around 8 PM,” and the app will provide a list of available options, allowing for more specific requests like intimate settings. Currently, the “Ask DoorDash” chatbot is being rolled out on iOS in select regions, focused on both restaurant searches and grocery shopping. The company plans to expand availability across the U.S. in the coming weeks, making this cutting-edge technology accessible to a broader audience.