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DoorDash has announced a series of major updates to its services, ranging from pilot drone deliveries to a new feature that lets customers order food via text message.
Users in Northern California will be the first to receive drone deliveries under the company’s new service, DoorDash Air, through pilot programs launched with local businesses and national chains such as Chipotle Mexican Grill and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. The rollout follows commercial drone delivery certification granted to DoorDash by the Federal Aviation Administration in June.
According to DoorDash, approximately 80 percent of its standard restaurant orders meet the size and weight limits for its aircraft. An automated routing system will evaluate real-time factors — including weather, flight range and local ground traffic — to determine whether an order can be fulfilled by air.
The company is also introducing a text-messaging feature that allows users to place food orders without opening the DoorDash app. The feature scans local menus, suggests cart items and recommends dishes using photos from restaurant listings.
According to the company, the text system tracks user preferences and order histories over time to handle custom requests, including group dietary restrictions or repeat orders. Customers can complete checkout directly within the text thread. U.S. users can apply for beta access by joining a waitlist on the company’s website.
In addition to food delivery, DoorDash is expanding its retail marketplace to offer delivery of apparel, home goods and beauty products from nationwide stores, including Macy’s, Anthropologie, The North Face, Vans and Timberland.
The company is also expanding its return pickup service, Dasher Returns, which currently operates in select cities. Scheduled for a nationwide launch in November, couriers will pick up eligible returns within 30 minutes without requiring boxes or shipping labels for a flat $7.99 fee, though DoorDash noted pricing may change.
The platform overhaul includes new artificial intelligence tools for delivery drivers, business software for participating restaurants, and a connector tool for corporate ordering.
