Surprising twist in the ongoing cola wars, Coca-Cola has unveiled its latest innovation, Y3000, a new soda flavor co-created with the help of artificial intelligence. Marketed as the soda “from the future,” Y3000 is now available for a limited time in both regular and zero-sugar varieties, according to a report by CNBC.
The name Y3000 certainly invokes a futuristic feel, although it may conjure images of Skynet and menacing Terminators rather than a refreshing beverage. While Coca-Cola has kept the taste profile under wraps, initial testers have likened it to the delightful flavors of a raspberry slushy.
Coca-Cola has shed light on the unique creation process behind Y3000. Researchers began by collecting consumer flavor preferences, seeking trends to understand what the “future tastes like.” This valuable data was then fed into a proprietary artificial intelligence system, which played a pivotal role in shaping the soda’s distinct flavor profile. The result? A groundbreaking addition to the beverage world.
Taking a page from its playbook, Coca-Cola also enlisted AI to design the artwork adorning the slim Y3000 cans. The packaging exudes a vibrant, neon-purple beachy vibe, reminiscent of image generation platforms like Dall-E or Midjourney. In addition to the slim cans, traditional-sized bottles are also available, each filled with this innovative “futuristic fluid.”
Although Y3000 is touted as a limited edition flavor, Coca-Cola has yet to reveal when it might bid adieu to store shelves, joining the ranks of other futuristic food experiments like Dippin’ Dots freeze-dried ice cream and the infamous, transparent (and not-so-delightful) Crystal Pepsi. However, it appears Y3000 will be sticking around at least through the fall, as Coca-Cola has announced a partnership with luxury streetwear brand Ambush to launch a Y3000-themed clothing collection later in the season. The cola wars just got a taste of the future!
