Airbnb says it’s launching an AI travel agent in the first half of 2027

Airbnb is developing an AI travel agent that will help users plan trips, compare options, and manage bookings, with a personalized interface that doesn't just respond but builds an interface around the user's question. The agent will launch in the first half of 2027. The company's CEO, Brian Chesky, has emphasized that this agent will be different from general-purpose AI agents, which are limited to simple tasks like making reservations or scheduling appointments. He believes that planning a trip is an aspirational experience that involves discovery and decision-making with others, and that the agent should enhance the experience rather than replace it. The agent will allow users to look at photos, compare homes, and make decisions with others, unlike general-purpose agents. The company is scheduled to launch the agent in the first half of 2027.