DoorDash opens US waitlists for an Apple Messages-integrated AI agent for ordering and a B2B API allowing assistants like Slack bots to execute bulk orders

You can now order DoorDash by texting from your phone, bypassing the app entirely.

DoorDash has launched a waitlist for a new AI-powered ordering system that integrates with Apple Messages, allowing users to place orders via text. This feature, an extension of its existing "Ask DoorDash" in-app assistant, aims to simplify the ordering process by enabling users to text requests like "order my usual" or specific dishes. The system personalizes orders based on past preferences and dietary needs, and can even suggest cheaper product alternatives for groceries. Additionally, DoorDash is introducing a B2B API that will allow third-party assistants, such as Slack bots, to execute bulk orders, expanding its business-to-business offerings. The company is also enhancing its in-app grocery ordering with features like one-tap restocks and AI-powered suggestions for lower-cost product swaps. These updates are designed to save users time and money by streamlining the purchasing process for both food and groceries.

DoorDash's move to integrate ordering directly into messaging platforms like Apple Messages signifies a broader trend towards conversational commerce and AI-driven convenience. By allowing users to order via simple text commands, DoorDash is abstracting away the traditional app interface, potentially lowering the barrier to entry for spontaneous purchases and increasing order frequency. The company's focus on personalization and automated savings further embeds its service into users' daily routines, aiming to become a utility rather than just a delivery app.

The introduction of a B2B API for bulk ordering through assistants like Slack bots positions DoorDash to capture a significant share of corporate and group purchasing. This move taps into the growing market for automated business workflows and team collaboration tools, where efficient procurement is a key pain point. By enabling seamless integration with existing productivity software, DoorDash aims to expand its reach beyond individual consumers to encompass organizational needs, potentially creating new revenue streams and solidifying its ecosystem.