Airbnb adds a “what” box to search
The company outlines a three-phase plan to turn Airbnb into a conversational, end-to-end AI platform
Airbnb is experimenting with a new “What” search box that uses natural language input, marking the first step toward CEO Brian Chesky’s vision of an integrated AI assistant for travel planning, customer service, and messaging. Over the next year, Airbnb plans to roll out progressively conversational features that could reshape how guests find and book stays.
Key takeaways
- AI-driven search interface: Airbnb is testing a “What” box that allows users to type queries in natural language, similar to ChatGPT or Gemini.
- Personalized search results: Instead of fixed filters, the AI will generate unique, conversational results tailored to each user’s query and preferences.
- Three-phase rollout: Phase one introduces the “What” box; phase two enables natural language conversations; phase three merges search, customer service, and messaging into a unified AI assistant.
- Specialization over models: Chesky said success won’t depend on using a specific AI model but on how Airbnb designs and integrates it for travel.
- Expansion beyond stays: Airbnb is piloting its new Experiences and Services businesses city by city, with more efficient scaling expected for future launches.
- Selective chatbot integration: While open to collaboration, Chesky said Airbnb doesn’t want to be reduced to a commodity or mere data layer within broader AI platforms.
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