Airbnb adds direct messaging, new social features after app overhaul
Airbnb It adds new social features to its platform that allow guests participating in experiences to communicate and stay in touch.
The new updates add a direct messaging feature for attendees to connect with other guests and a pre-event dashboard that displays profiles of other attendees participating in the experience.
Chief operating officer Dave Stephenson said the updated technology was based on the company’s “vision for where to take Airbnb next.” Airbnb said users must enable social features for each experience and can unsubscribe at any time.
Airbnb has launched a new messaging links feature that allows guests to interact.
Courtesy: Airbnb
The updates follow the travel company’s major app redesign in May, which brought services such as catering and personal training to the platform. These changes also included a revamp of the company’s experience business.
The company has tried to expand beyond the home rental business for years but stalled in 2020 as the severe effects of the pandemic hurt travel. Earlier this year, Airbnb announced that it would invest between $200 and $250 million in new business opportunities.
During the app overhaul in May, Stephenson told CNBC that Airbnb felt it had a “strong foundation” to expand its offerings.
Airbnb also updated the AI chatbot it launched this year to answer personalized customer support questions. The tool can now cancel reservations or adjust dates at any time, and is available in English, Spanish, and French to users in North America.
Other updates include new flexible carousels that show alternative listings outside of the initial search criteria. The maps will also include nearby landmarks, restaurants, and attractions, allowing users to switch between different views.
