Starbucks Corporation announced the launch of a beta ordering application inside OpenAI’s ChatGPT on April 15, 2026. The new feature lets users type a prompt that includes “@Starbucks” to browse the full menu, customize drinks, and select a store for pickup. The final transaction is completed on the Starbucks app or website, ensuring that loyalty points and data are captured in the company’s core systems.
The beta app is part of CEO Brian Niccol’s “Back to Starbucks” turnaround, which focuses on restoring the coffeehouse feel while expanding digital channels. It also dovetails with the company’s Deep Brew AI initiative, which seeks to personalize the customer experience and improve operational efficiency across the supply chain. By embedding ordering into a conversational interface, Starbucks aims to capture customers who begin with a feeling rather than a menu, a shift highlighted by senior vice‑president of digital and loyalty Paul Riedel.
Paul Riedel said, “Over the past year, one thing has become clear: customers aren't always starting with a menu. They're starting with a feeling. … We wanted to meet customers right in that moment of inspiration and make it easier than ever to find a drink that fits.” He added that the beta experience will allow Starbucks to listen, learn, and refine as they go, underscoring the company’s commitment to iterative improvement.
Starbucks is not alone in integrating AI into customer‑facing apps; competitors such as Expedia, Zillow, Target, and Walmart have partnered with OpenAI. The new feature positions Starbucks to compete in an evolving landscape where AI‑powered shopping experiences are becoming more prevalent, potentially driving additional traffic and sales through a convenient channel. The company’s recent fiscal first‑quarter results, which showed increased customer transactions after a period of decline, suggest that the broader digital strategy is beginning to pay off.
The beta status indicates that Starbucks will gather user feedback and iterate on the experience. Users must enter “@Starbucks” in ChatGPT to access menu options, customize orders, and choose a pickup location. The final payment step on the Starbucks app or website ensures that loyalty program integration and data capture remain intact, while the conversational interface offers a novel, low‑friction entry point for new and existing customers.
The content on EveryTicker is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.