Google expands AI mode to offer travel planning and booking features

Google has introduced new capabilities for AI Mode, its conversational search experience, allowing users to plan and book trips. The updates enable users to track flight prices, book hotels, and view costs in points or miles. These features position AI Mode as an AI travel agent, moving beyond information retrieval to assist with trip planning and booking. Users can now specify their travel dates and destinations, and AI Mode will display the best options with current prices from over 300 airlines and travel sites. If users decide to book, they can build their itinerary within AI Mode. For those who prefer to monitor prices, they can request tracking and receive email notifications when prices change. Flight price tracking is now available in over 180 countries. Hotel booking through AI Mode allows users to discover and book accommodations by describing their trip and preferences. AI Mode provides options with reviews and key factors. Once a hotel is selected, users can complete the booking through Google’s integrated partners, including hotel chains and travel sites. The booking process involves selecting a room, reviewing cancellation policies, and completing the transaction with Google Pay. The hotel or booking platform handles the actual booking and customer service. Hotel booking features are rolling out in the U.S. in English, with partnerships from Booking.com, Choice Hotels International, Expedia, Hilton, Hotels.com, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Pricyline, Trip.com, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. Additionally, users can now see the cost in points or miles for flights and hotels by specifying their travel details and points system. This feature is available globally. The updates reflect Google’s broader strategy to enhance AI Mode’s functionality in travel planning and booking, integrating various travel services and providing users with a seamless experience.