Restaurants

Square introduces AI-powered restaurant kiosk with conversational voice ordering

Image courtesy Square

October 15, 2026

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Square has introduced a self-service kiosk featuring artificial intelligence-powered voice ordering designed to help quick-service restaurants improve ordering efficiency and customer service, according to a press release.

The Square Kiosk allows customers to ask questions about menu items, request modifications, explore substitutions and receive personalized recommendations through conversational AI. The system combines voice interaction with a 21.5-inch touchscreen, allowing customers to switch between speaking and touching the display during the ordering process.

The kiosk includes presence detection to greet approaching customers, integrated payment processing, a barcode scanner and access to Square Loyalty accounts. Its AI capabilities can recommend products based on popular items, time of day and products already selected, potentially increasing average order values. Square said the technology is designed to reduce pressure on employees during busy periods while allowing them to focus on food preparation and hospitality. Baltej Sra, CEO of Boba tea provider Boba Nation Grand, said in the release the company has tested the kiosks successfully and plans to expand their use across its locations this year.

Square is introducing additional management capabilities for large quick-service restaurant franchises, including centralized menu management, reporting and gift card administration. The tools are designed to help operators coordinate multiple locations while preserving flexibility for individual franchisees.

The new Square Kiosk is now available for $1,999, including a countertop stand, plus a $99 monthly software fee per device. It also requires a Square Plus subscription ($49 per location per month) or a Square Premium subscription ($149 per location per month). Square said the new hardware and software reflect its growing investment in restaurant technology, following earlier introductions of drive-thru capabilities and integrations intended to help restaurants attract customers and manage orders.

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