The mainstreaming of AI is setting a new precedent for how people relate to non-human sources of intelligence. While automation on a consumer level has typically focused on specific tasks like replying to emails or budgeting, it’s now swiftly expanding to a more dynamic range of applications.

E-commerce platform Taobao is a go-to for young Chinese shoppers. But following the release of the Chinese government’s five year plan to develop the ‘silver economy’, it’s modifying its approach to improve its accessibility and usability for the country’s growing elderly population.

Because of the pandemic, many people have gotten more comfortable ordering food through apps and drive-thrus. Leveraging both, Taco Bell’s drive-thru-only restaurant, Taco Bell Defy, aims to make the process of ordering and collecting fast food as efficient and seamless as possible.

McDonald’s has teamed up with IBM to facilitate the execution and growth of the fast food giant’s Automated Order Technology. This partnership hints at the growing value of convenience and hygiene among diners, but what are the benefits and drawbacks of fully digitized restaurant services?

With Japanese people experiencing restrictions that limit where and how often they go when outside of their homes, nearby convenience stores are serving the needs of shoppers in higher numbers. Amid fears of contagion and limited scope for shopping, people are stocking up on items closer to home.