.png){kind=logo}
Airbnb is expanding its app with new AI-powered search tools and social features designed to change how travelers discover stays, experiences, and services. The company’s latest update lets users describe what they want in their own words and makes it easier to see where friends and family have traveled.
The AI search is initially rolling out in the US. Travelers can type or use voice to describe a trip, rather than relying only on traditional filters. Airbnb says the feature can search across homes, experiences, and services to find options that match a user’s request.
The company is also using AI to make its existing search tools more flexible. Users can enter keywords in filters, and Airbnb will automatically surface related options. For example, searching for ‘baby’ can bring up filters for cribs, playgrounds, books and toys.
Search results will also include AI-generated descriptions that highlight notable property features. For travelers comparing several options, Airbnb is adding a side-by-side comparison tool that summarises key details from homes saved to a wishlist.
Airbnb is also expanding AI-powered customer support. The company says its AI chat support is available in more than 50 languages, and it is expanding voice support so guests can get assistance over the phone.
“We are finally making our first foray into AI search. And what you see is just the very beginning of something. And over the coming months, we’re going to really be iterating this very quickly. It’s not hard to create AI search; it’s hard to create AI search in e-commerce when you have $100 billion going through your platform,” said Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky.
Alongside the AI features, Airbnb is introducing a Travel Map that lets connected users see where friends and family have stayed or plan to travel. Users can explore past trips, read reviews, check experiences and services booked by their connections, and save interesting locations to their own wishlists.
Privacy controls allow users to decide which trips appear on their map. They can hide or remove individual trips and block connections when necessary. Airbnb is also adding neighborhood pages that provide information about an area, including things to do, places to eat, and how to get around.
Also Read: Airbnb Leads $58M WeRoad Round as Group Travel Startup Eyes US Expansion
The latest update also pushes Airbnb further beyond accommodation. In the US, users can access laundry services in selected cities and rent baby equipment in more than 60 cities. In parts of Europe, Airbnb is adding grocery and meal delivery options.
For hosts, the company plans additional tools later this fall, including dynamic pricing, a multi-listing calendar, 3D floor plans and AI-generated performance insights. The broader update reflects Airbnb’s effort to bring trip planning, discovery, and services into a more connected experience.
