The US-based food-delivery service, DoorDash, has initiated a program compensating its delivery drivers, known as Dashers, to perform real-world activities aimed at training artificial intelligence.

This new feature, called Tasks, incentivizes drivers to engage in various short activities including photographing store shelves, verifying product availability, and confirming menus at restaurants. The data gathered from these tasks will be utilized to improve AI systems and provide more accurate real-world data for businesses.

Expansion Beyond Food Delivery

DoorDash has outlined that the Tasks feature is a strategic move to broaden its operations beyond the realm of food delivery, extending into logistics, automation, and data services. Under this program, Dashers can opt to complete these activities between deliveries or as standalone tasks, with payment varying based on the complexity and effort involved. Details related to the payment structure are clearly presented to drivers prior to task acceptance.

Improving AI Understanding of the Physical World

The company has indicated that many of these tasks will directly contribute to refining AI models. In its official communications, DoorDash emphasized that the collected data assists AI and robotic systems in grasping the nuances of the physical environment. Payment for these tasks is made transparent upfront and is proportional to the complexity of each activity.

Incorporating Video and Audio Data

In some scenarios, drivers may also be asked to submit video recordings, capture audio dialogue, or film everyday actions. This data serves to enhance AI systems by enabling them to understand how humans carry out various tasks. The insights gained from this initiative can benefit DoorDash and its partners across multiple sectors, including retail, insurance, hospitality, and technology.

Leveraging a Large Driver Network

DoorDash is utilizing its extensive network of drivers to meet the increasing demand for real-world data vital for developing more advanced AI solutions. The company is not alone in this endeavor; Uber has previously launched a similar program titled “Digital Tasks” in 12 major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, in addition to locations in the United States.

Income Opportunities Through Task Completion

Using its feature, Uber allows drivers and couriers the opportunity to supplement their income during idle periods by completing tasks like labeling images, classifying text, and recording audio samples. According to Uber, these completed tasks contribute to data utilized within Uber AI Solutions, not only enhancing their internal services but also generating training data for enterprise clients.

Amazon’s Approach to AI Training

Similarly, Amazon is also engaging its delivery drivers in AI training endeavors, employing technologies such as AI-equipped smart glasses. These glasses are designed to gather real-world data while drivers navigate neighborhoods, scan packages, and identify obstacles. The information acquired is poised to influence the development of autonomous delivery systems and optimize routing algorithms.

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