The algorithm in my local diner's tablet menu system changed everything

I go to this diner in Portland called Sam's about twice a week. For 3 years I always ordered the same thing, the patty melt with onion rings. Then about 4 months ago they switched to ordering through these tablets on the table. At first I thought it was just a digital menu, but it kept pushing this spicy chicken wrap to the top of my screen. After ignoring it for like 5 visits, I finally gave in just to see what happens. Turns out the tablet was learning my orders and trying to get me to try higher margin items or something. Now whenever I tap the patty melt it takes an extra second to load, like it's mad I didn't pick the wrap. Has anyone else seen those self-order kiosks change what you actually end up eating just because of how they display things?

3 comments

3 Comments

wyatt_mitchell2619d ago

Honestly that's just creepy, like the tablet is gaslighting you into ordering the wrap.

kelly38519d ago

That tablet totally sounds like it's judging your food choices, I'd be annoyed too.

sean_cooper5819d agoTop Commenter

Wait, so the tablet literally slows down when you pick the patty melt now? That's kind of wild. Like it's passive-aggressive about your order. I'd honestly be tempted to start randomly tapping the wrap just to see if it rewards me with a faster loading time or something. Reminds me of how streaming services bury stuff you watch a lot to push new shows.