Starbucks launches ChatGPT app to suggest drinks by mood or photo

Starbucks launched a beta app inside ChatGPT on Wednesday that recommends beverages based on mood descriptions or uploaded photos. The chat lets users browse menu items, change ingredients and pick a store for pickup, but it does not process payments. Customers must complete orders in the Starbucks mobile app or on starbucks.com.

To use the feature, a customer types how they feel or uploads an image. The ChatGPT app returns personalized drink suggestions and shows customization options within the chat window. The chatbot also displays nearby store choices for pickup, while finalizing the sale happens on Starbucks’ own platforms.

Starbucks described the beta as part of its investment in AI tools for both customers and store staff. The company already uses Green Dot Assist, an internal AI assistant built on Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI platform, to help baristas with drink recipes, equipment troubleshooting and staff scheduling. Green Dot Assist moved from a 35-store pilot to full deployment across North American stores last November.

Paul Riedel, Starbucks’ senior vice president of digital and loyalty, noted: “Over the past year, one thing has become clear: Customers aren’t always starting with a menu. They’re starting with a feeling.” Riedel added the company wanted to meet customers at that moment of inspiration.

Several large retailers and delivery services have added ChatGPT integrations that let shoppers request recommendations, convert recipes into shopping lists, browse menus and, in some cases, place orders through the chat interface.

Starbucks is introducing the tool as it seeks to boost customer traffic and sales following a period of declines. For the fiscal quarter ending Dec. 28, the company reported its first positive U.S. comparable transaction growth after two years of customer losses. Starbucks also reported that service speed during peak periods remains below its four-minute target.

The beta is available inside ChatGPT rather than within the Starbucks mobile app, letting users access AI suggestions alongside other ChatGPT features. By not enabling payment processing at launch, the company keeps the chat focused on discovery and customization while requiring checkout on Starbucks’ platforms.

Earlier this month, Florida opened a probe into OpenAI’s ChatGPT over safety, criminal misuse, and FSU shooting claims.