DoorDash previews text ordering, drone deliveries and returns

DoorDash has previewed three additions to its local delivery platform: ordering by text message, drone delivery and a service for returning retail items.

The text feature builds on the Ask DoorDash AI chatbot introduced in the app in June. It is designed to search local businesses, suggest a cart and handle checkout in a text thread. DoorDash says it can respond to requests for specific dishes or recommendations and remember customer preferences for future orders. The feature is not yet available. iOS users in the US can join a waitlist to try it in beta; DoorDash has not provided a rollout timeline or details on Android availability.

DoorDash Air, the company’s drone delivery service, is set to be piloted in an unspecified part of northern California with local food businesses, including Chipotle and Popeyes. DoorDash says about 80 percent of typical restaurant orders are light and small enough for the aircraft to carry safely. In initial testing, food arrived at customers’ doors within five minutes. The company has not said when consumers will be able to use the service.

A returns feature that lets customers pay DoorDash couriers to take eligible items back to local retailers is currently available in select cities. Scheduling a return costs $7.99, and no box or shipping label is required. DoorDash plans to expand the service across the US in November.