Two weeks ago I discussed the future of automated stores with a friend of mine, focusing on the Shop24 automated store. It is similar to those automated DVD kiosks you see popping up around town. The widespread adoption of this technology donned on me while I was driving through Taco Bell one night and wondered when someone would eventually automate the entire process of making the food (though I suppose you may need someone for customer service in case an order was improperly made). The process is partially being done with via drive through subcontracted attendants and you can already order online from numerous restaurants (like Freebirds).
While the concept is apparently not new (as seen in these comments), Boing Boing points to a new pilot program that Taco Bell and KFC are testing. It involves self-service ordering via automated touch screens. I can’t wait until someone does the Chinese food version of this.
Or dare we hope, nanotech replicators?