Order Your Favorites Effortlessly with DoorDash’s AI Chatbot

DoorDash is rolling out exciting new features for its local delivery platform, including text message ordering, drone deliveries, and an expanded returns service. The text ordering capability builds on the Ask DoorDash AI chatbot introduced in June, allowing users to get recommendations and place orders without even opening the app.

“Ordering is now as easy as sending a text,” DoorDash stated. “You can request a specific dish, ask for a local recommendation based on your mood, or simply say, ‘order my usual protein bowl to the office.’ The service searches local options, suggests a cart, and manages checkout right within the text conversation. It also learns your preferences for future orders.”

Currently, this text ordering feature is in preview mode, with iOS users in the US able to join a waitlist to experience it in beta. Details about the rollout timeline and Android availability are still pending.

Additionally, DoorDash has announced the first location for its drone delivery service, DoorDash Air, which will be tested in a yet-to-be-disclosed area of northern California with local food partners like Chipotle and Popeyes. The company claims that about 80 percent of typical restaurant orders are “light and small enough for the aircraft to carry safely,” with food expected to arrive at customers’ doors within five minutes based on initial tests. However, a specific launch date for consumer access to drone deliveries has not been provided.

Lastly, a returns feature is set to expand nationwide in November, allowing customers to pay DoorDash couriers to return items to local retailers. Currently available in select cities, this service costs $7.99 to schedule an eligible return. No box or shipping label is needed; the item is simply picked up from your door and returned to the store, streamlining the return process for those who might miss the return window due to other commitments.