Google has expanded its AI Mode travel capabilities, adding flight price tracking and hotel booking functionality as it moves further into the trip-planning space.
Users can now provide their travel dates and destination and ask AI Mode to find flight options, with prices sourced from more than 300 airlines and travel sites. Travellers who are not ready to book can ask the tool to track fares and receive email alerts when prices change.
The update also introduces conversational hotel search and booking. Users can specify their destination and accommodation preferences, with AI Mode presenting hotel options alongside reviews and other factors for comparison.
Once a hotel has been selected, users can choose ‘Continue on Google’ to proceed with a booking through one of Google’s integrated partners. After reviewing room and cancellation details, payment can be completed through Google Pay. The hotel or booking platform remains responsible for the reservation and customer service.
The hotel booking functionality is currently rolling out in the US, with partners including Booking.com, Choice Hotels International, Expedia, Hilton, Hotels.com, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Priceline, Trip.com and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
Google has also added the ability to display flight and hotel costs in loyalty points or miles. Initial supported partners include Alaska Airlines/Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, Choice Hotels International, Hilton and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
Accor, Flying Blue, Hyatt, LATAM Airlines and Lufthansa Group are among the additional partners expected to be added in the coming weeks.
