McDonalds is launching what it calls a new era of beverages as it tries to lure Gen Z and compete with chains such as Starbucks, the Wall Street Journal reported.Starting in May, customers will be able to order drinks like dirty Dr Pepper, a mango pineapple refresher and even a Red Bull-based concoction called the dragon berry energizer.RELATED STORY | Dollar menu memories fade as McDonalds rolls out $3 dealsThe Golden Arches has been tweaking its beverage menu for years as consumer tastes change and new trends take hold, particularly among younger generations.Our fans love for McDonalds beverages runs deep, from rallying for the return of Hi-C Orange Lavaburst to coining the iconic Spicy Sprite. Next month, were building on that passion with a new era of beverages, featuring a variety of Refreshers and crafted sodas rolling out nationwide. Well have more to share soon, and were excited for fans across the country to taste whats next, McDonalds said in a statement to the Wall Street Journal.RELATED STORY | McDonalds to debut Big Arch Burger, its most calorie-dense yet, March 3According to McDonald's USA, it is phasing out soda fountains in its U.S. dining rooms between now and 2032. ...read more read less