What the new AI voice assistant does
Just Eat is transforming how customers choose a meal by introducing an AI-powered voice assistant. Instead of scrolling through hundreds of menu items, diners can simply tell the system what they’re craving, and the assistant will interpret preferences, dietary needs, and price range to present tailored recommendations. The goal is to streamline the ordering process, making it faster and more enjoyable for people who would rather talk than scroll.
How it works in practice
Users initiate the voice assistant through the Just Eat app or website. A natural, conversational prompt asks what you’re in the mood for—think options like “pizza for a family night” or “something spicy under £12.” The AI then filters available menus, ranks options by popularity and suitability, and offers a short list with descriptions, estimated delivery times, and any standout deals. If you’re torn between two dishes, you can ask the assistant for a quick comparison or request alternates that fit your budget or dietary restrictions.
Benefits for diners
The primary advantage is convenience. For busy evenings, the voice assistant shortens decision time, helping you place an order without pinching at your screen. It also assists users with dietary needs by noting allergens and preferred cuisines, reducing the risk of choosing unsuitable items. Personalization is further enhanced as the AI learns preferences over time, offering suggestions that align with past orders and expressed tastes.
Better accessibility
Voice interaction can improve accessibility for some users, including those who prefer auditory input or have difficulty navigating complex menus on a small screen. By enabling hands-free operation, Just Eat addresses a broader range of customer needs without sacrificing the quality of recommendations.
Impact on local restaurants
Restaurants stand to gain from a more direct route to potential customers. The AI system can highlight signature dishes, promote special offers, and surface menu items that align with current trends. This can increase order volume for partner eateries while maintaining a level of curation that protects brand integrity. For small establishments, being featured in AI-driven recommendations could broaden visibility beyond a typical search path.
Privacy and control
Just Eat emphasizes user privacy, noting that interactions with the AI respond to voice prompts and do not reveal sensitive information beyond what the user explicitly shares. Consumers retain control over their data, and the system is designed to respect opt-out choices and voice preferences. For those who prefer to browse, traditional menu navigation remains available.
What this means for the takeaway experience
As AI-assisted ordering becomes more common, platforms like Just Eat are blending the efficiency of voice-enabled tech with the human touch of curated menus. The technology aims to reduce decision fatigue, shorten delivery windows, and help diners discover options they might not have considered. In practice, that means quicker decisions, easier customization, and a smoother path from craving to doorstep.
Looking ahead
While the current rollout focuses on conversational recommendations, future updates could include multilingual support, regional cuisine customization, and deeper integration with allergy alerts and nutritional information. As AI models learn more about local menus and user patterns, the voice assistant could become an even more valuable staple for everyday ordering, not just a novelty feature.
In a market where convenience is king, Just Eat’s AI voice assistant positions the company at the intersection of technology and dining, turning the menu into an interactive, effortless experience rather than a page to be scanned. If you’ve ever wished your order could think for you for a moment, this is the kind of feature that makes that wish feel almost real.
