Zomato Launches AI Voice Bot for Enhanced Food Ordering Experience

New Delhi, India Jul 15, 2026 ALN: Zomato, one of India's leading food delivery platforms, is piloting a new AI-powered voice bot that allows users to place food orders using voice commands. This innovative technology is currently being tested with a select group of users in specific areas of Bengaluru, a city known for its vibrant food culture and tech-savvy population. The voice bot aims to enhance the user experience by enabling customers to communicate their meal preferences in a conversational manner, thereby receiving personalized recommendations tailored to their tastes.

The product description for this voice bot highlights its user-friendly approach: “Conversation mode. Ordering made easy with a voice bot that understands you.” This feature is not just a novelty; it represents Zomato's commitment to integrating advanced technology into its services. The voice bot is part of a broader strategy that includes the use of Generative AI technologies, which Zomato has been exploring since the launch of its AI chatbot in 2023. This earlier chatbot was designed to assist customers in discovering food dishes and restaurants, showcasing Zomato's focus on enhancing customer engagement through technology.

As the landscape of food delivery continues to evolve, Zomato's introduction of an AI voice bot reflects a growing trend among tech companies to incorporate artificial intelligence into everyday services. The use of voice commands in ordering food is not only convenient but also aligns with the increasing consumer preference for hands-free technology. The voice bot allows users to bypass traditional text-based menus and navigate the ordering process through natural language, which can be particularly beneficial in situations where users are multitasking or when they prefer a more interactive experience.

Beyond the consumer-facing applications, Zomato has also implemented AI voice technology within its logistics operations. The internal logistics team utilizes a voice bot to guide delivery partners through the order fulfillment process. This dual application of voice technology not only streamlines the ordering experience for customers but also enhances operational efficiency for delivery personnel. By providing real-time assistance to delivery partners, Zomato aims to reduce errors and improve delivery times, which are critical factors in customer satisfaction within the food delivery industry.

Furthermore, Zomato has reported that its internal AI tool, known as Gavel, has drastically cut evaluation costs for reviewing voice bot calls. This reduction is significant; costs have plummeted by 98%, decreasing from ₹450 when assessed by human agents to just ₹10 when evaluated by the AI tool. Such savings can lead to more efficient resource allocation and improved service delivery. The ability to evaluate a vast number of interactions with minimal cost allows Zomato to continuously refine its voice bot, ensuring that it becomes increasingly adept at understanding and responding to user requests.

Earlier in the year, Zomato took another step in its AI journey by partnering with Google to introduce restaurant reservations via Google’s AI Mode. This collaboration illustrates Zomato's strategic intent to harness AI capabilities not only for food ordering but also for enhancing the overall dining experience. The integration with Google’s AI tools allows Zomato to reach a wider audience and provide a seamless experience for users who wish to explore dining options beyond delivery. This partnership reflects a broader trend of tech companies collaborating to enhance service offerings and improve user experiences.

Additionally, Zomato has recently launched a feature called “Healthy Subscriptions,” which allows users to pre-plan healthy meals from partner restaurants. This initiative reflects the growing consumer interest in health and wellness, as more people seek nutritious meal options. In conjunction with these offerings, Zomato has also made changes to its subscription model, reducing the free-delivery threshold for Gold users from ₹199 to ₹99, making it more accessible for customers. These strategic adjustments highlight Zomato's responsiveness to market demands and its commitment to providing greater value to its users.

Zomato's exploration of AI solutions is part of a larger strategy to fortify its position within the Indian food tech ecosystem, which is expected to reach a market size of $46 billion by 2034. This projected growth underscores the increasing demand for food delivery services and the potential for innovation within the sector. The company has demonstrated strong financial performance, with a reported 33% year-over-year increase in operating revenue, reaching ₹2,737 crore in Q4 FY26. Additionally, adjusted EBITDA rose by 24% year-over-year to ₹532 crore, indicating healthy operational growth. Such metrics are crucial not only for attracting investors but also for ensuring sustainable growth in a competitive market.

On a broader scale, Zomato's parent company, Eternal, has also reported impressive financial results, with a remarkable 4.5 times increase in net profit to ₹174 crore in Q4 FY26, compared to ₹39 crore in the same quarter last year. The operating revenue for Eternal surged by 196% year-over-year and increased by 6% quarter-over-quarter to reach ₹17,292 crore during this period. Such financial growth is indicative of the company's robust business model and its ability to capitalize on the expanding food delivery market in India. This performance showcases how Zomato, along with its parent company, is effectively leveraging technology and innovation to drive business success.

Shares of Eternal, the parent company of Zomato, closed at ₹285.95 in the previous trading session, reflecting a slight increase of 0.28% on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). This positive movement in share price can be attributed to the company's strong financial performance and its forward-looking initiatives in technology and customer engagement. As investors look for companies that are not only profitable but also innovative, Zomato's initiatives in AI and customer service enhancements position it favorably in the eyes of the market.

The implications of Zomato's AI initiatives extend beyond immediate customer convenience. By investing in AI technologies, Zomato is positioning itself to lead in a competitive market where consumer preferences are rapidly evolving. The integration of AI can also provide valuable data insights, enabling Zomato to refine its offerings and better meet the needs of its users. As more consumers gravitate towards digital solutions for everyday tasks, Zomato's focus on innovation could prove to be a significant competitive advantage. This adaptability is crucial in an industry where consumer loyalty can be fleeting, and the ability to anticipate and respond to changing preferences can set a company apart from its competitors.

In conclusion, Zomato's pilot of the AI voice bot represents a significant step forward in enhancing the food ordering experience for its users. Coupled with its broader strategy to leverage AI and improve operational efficiency, Zomato is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities within the dynamic Indian food tech landscape. As the company continues to explore and implement advanced technologies, it will be interesting to observe how these developments influence customer engagement, operational efficiency, and overall market growth in the coming years. The success of this voice bot could pave the way for further innovations in the food tech sector, encouraging other companies to explore similar technologies and enhancing the overall customer experience in the industry.