Block launches the Dessa voice AI model
Start here
AI-assisted source synthesis · not an independent investigation.
On October 28, 2026, Block released Dessa, a speech-to-speech artificial intelligence model. Reports indicate that Dessa can listen and respond simultaneously, which may improve the conversational experience, but it has not yet solved the problems of identifying the payer through voice recognition or completing payment authorization by voice. Block's Square Kiosk can process English-language voice orders based on the menu, prices, and options in a merchant's Square account, but this feature is currently available only in the United States. After the order is completed, payment must still be made through the device's built-in card reader, by tapping, inserting a card, or entering a PIN.
AI-written from reports · updated 3 hours ago
Timeline
Follow the reporting to see the different sides of the story.
- PYMNTSBlock's Dessa improves conversations but does not solve checkout problems
Block released the speech-to-speech AI model Dessa, which can listen and respond simultaneously, but it has not yet solved the problems of identifying the payer by voice or authorizing payments by voice. Square Kiosk can process English-language voice orders based on the menu, prices and modifiers in a merchant's Square account, but is available only in the US; payment is still completed via tap, dip or PIN on the built-in card reader.
Heat over time
Not enough consecutive observations yet to draw a trend.