Chipotle Rolls Out Burrito-Bowl Robots, But Tacos Still Require Human Touch

Chipotle has developed robots that can make burrito bowls and salads, but not tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. The robots can't handle tortillas or assemble full custom orders.

Other chains like White Castle and McDonald's are also testing limited food prep robots, but human workers still do most tasks.

Robots struggle with tactile sensing and manipulating soft or irregular foods like guacamole. More research is needed to improve robot dexterity.

It's economically challenging for most restaurants to roll out robots that only do one task well, like frying. Robots have to be versatile.

While robots are making marginal progress, fast food remains a very human-oriented business. People still make most food and run shops, so full automation is a long way off.