Airbnb says it’s launching an AI travel agent in the first half of 2027
Airbnb says its upcoming AI agent will help travelers plan trips, compare options, manage bookings, and get assistance throughout their stay.
Airbnb has announced its plans to launch an artificial intelligence travel agent in the first half of 2027. The travel company unveiled the details of the new AI feature in its Q3 shareholder letter, describing how the agent will work and how it differs from a typical chatbot. CEO Brian Chesky emphasized that the agent's interface will be more comprehensive than a standard chatbot, offering a richer experience for users.
He stressed that the AI agent will not replace the pleasure of planning a trip, as 80% of travelers enjoy researching their destinations. Instead, the agent will provide a personalized interface tailored to travel needs, offering maps, photos, comparisons, calendars, and itineraries in real-time. The company's extensive experience in connecting hosts and guests informs the agent's design, incorporating insights on booking and hosting behaviors.
Beyond booking, the agent will assist travelers throughout their journey, handling issues like reservation changes, payment disputes, refunds, rebooking, and 24-hour safety support. Over time, Airbnb aims to expand the agent's capabilities to include services and experiences, areas that have gained importance after the company's recent redesign.
The announcement comes alongside Airbnb's strong Q3 earnings, with revenue increasing by 19% to $4.87 billion, surpassing Wall Street estimates. The company has also revised its 2026 revenue growth forecast to the high teens, up from the mid-teens.
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Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Airbnb is working on an AI travel agent theverge.com
