Airbnb is expanding its app with AI-powered property search, new travel services and social features designed to help users discover places and experiences.
The company’s latest product update adds services including meal delivery, laundry, baby-gear rental, ski and boat rentals in limited locations, and broader grocery delivery.
Its new AI search allows users to find properties through text or voice prompts. The app generates dynamic filters based on a traveler’s preferences. A search for “baby,” for example, can surface filters for cribs, playgrounds, children’s books and toys. Airbnb will also use AI to highlight relevant property features and create summaries to help users compare listings in their wish lists.
The company said it is taking a measured approach to AI rather than introducing a chatbot-style interface. CEO Brian Chesky told TechCrunch that the challenge is building AI search without harming conversion rates on a platform handling significant transaction volume.
Airbnb is also adding a map showing connections’ past or upcoming trips, including where they stayed and which experiences they booked. Users can choose not to share their trips. In addition, the company is developing neighborhood pages based on guest reviews and other sources, covering local restaurants and activities.
Source: TechCrunch
