Incident2026-10-05

McDonald’s denied it uses AI to set menu prices. It said it gives franchisees tools and recommendations only. Operators still make the final pricing decisions themselves. The chain also said it does not use dynamic pricing. It does not change prices in real time or by hour. Franchisees base prices on local costs and demand. McDonald’s uses digital menu boards for promotions and stock updates. It recently launched ArchIQ, an AI system for drive-thru and inventory. That tool does not affect menu pricing. The company evaluates franchisee pricing to ensure consistent value.

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