Disneyland Resort has always been known for its innovative approach to theme park experiences, and now, it’s taking the dining experience to the next level with the introduction of AI self-checkout stations at Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta. After successful tests at Walt Disney World, Disneyland is now the latest park to try out this cutting-edge technology, and it’s making waves among guests. But how well does it really work? Let’s dive in and see what you need to know.
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The New AI Self-Checkout Stations
The new self-checkout system at Disneyland’s Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta is currently being tested with two AI-powered stations. Located near the north exit of the restaurant, these checkout stations are designed to streamline the ordering process, allowing guests to check out quickly and efficiently without waiting in long lines.
These checkouts aren’t just placed on regular counters—they come with a custom wrap to ensure they blend in with the vibrant atmosphere of Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta, making them a seamless addition to the restaurant’s design.
How Does the AI Checkout Work?
Here’s the exciting part: Guests can place their food and beverage items on a tray, and the AI scanner is supposed to automatically identify everything on it. It sounds easy, but there are some guidelines to keep in mind. The AI works best when items are placed separately, so if your pizza is too close to your soda or if your salad is crowded up against your breadsticks, it may not scan correctly.
Once the tray is detected, the large screen beside the scanner will automatically load and begin the checkout process. If the system misses any items, guests can manually add them via the screen. However, this page is intended only for Cast Members to make adjustments, so it’s not meant to be used freely by guests.
Payment Methods: MagicBands, Cards, and More
While AI is making its way into the dining experience, there are still some limitations. For instance, the self-checkout system does not accept cash payments—so guests will need to have a MagicBand, credit card, or mobile payment option ready to go. This digital-only process might take some getting used to for visitors who prefer to pay with cash, but for many Disney fans, it could be a smoother, quicker alternative to the traditional checkout experience.
A Little Help from Cast Members
While the AI tech is impressive, Disney hasn’t completely removed the human element from the equation. Cast Members are stationed nearby to assist guests, ensuring the self-checkout stations run smoothly. If there’s an issue with the AI system, guests can always rely on the help of a Cast Member to sort things out. This extra layer of assistance ensures a more seamless experience, especially as the technology continues to evolve.
What’s Next for Disney’s AI Self-Checkout?
Currently, this self-checkout system is still in its testing phase, so it’s unclear whether it will roll out to more locations within Disneyland Resort. However, if the test proves successful, it’s likely we’ll see more AI-powered checkouts in other restaurants and areas of the park in the future.
For now, if you find yourself at Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta and want to try the new system, be prepared for a small learning curve. The technology is still in the “getting the kinks out” phase, but it’s exciting to think about the potential for faster, more efficient dining experiences in the future.
Disneyland Resort is always looking for ways to enhance the guest experience, and the introduction of AI self-checkouts is just one example of how the parks are evolving. While the system is still in its early stages, it shows great promise for reducing wait times and streamlining the food ordering process. Whether or not this technology becomes a permanent feature at Disneyland, we’ll be keeping a close eye on its progress.
What do you think about the new AI self-checkout stations at Disneyland Resort? Will they make your park experience smoother or add a layer of frustration? Let us know in the comments!
