Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky has stated that the integration of the company’s services with OpenAI’s ChatGPT is not feasible at this time. He emphasized that the available tools from OpenAI are not yet sufficiently developed for their needs.
Current Status of ChatGPT Integration
During an interview, Chesky mentioned that Airbnb would keep an eye on the progress of ChatGPT’s app integration features. Similar collaborations have been adopted by competitors like Booking Holdings Inc. and Expedia Group Inc.
Chesky remarked, “I didn’t think it was quite ready,” focusing on the necessity for an advanced platform that would allow Airbnb’s app to function almost independently within the ChatGPT environment.
Collaboration and Development with OpenAI
Chesky, who shares a close friendship with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, has provided guidance on the capabilities for third-party developers to introduce their applications to the ChatGPT platform. OpenAI recently announced these features, but Airbnb was not included among the initial applications.
An OpenAI spokesperson did not comment directly on Chesky’s statements but referenced a recent blog post describing their app integration technology as in a developer preview stage, with plans for additional features to follow.
Airbnb’s AI Enhancements
While waiting on ChatGPT integration, Airbnb has enhanced its existing AI tools within its app. The company has upgraded its AI customer service features, enabling more user actions without needing to connect to a live representative.
- Airbnb’s AI service agent was launched to U.S. users in May.
- New features include action buttons for reservations, leading to a 15% decrease in the need for live assistance.
- Average resolution times have improved, dropping from nearly three hours to just six seconds.
This fall, the company plans to introduce support for Spanish and French, with 56 additional languages expected next year. Chesky noted that the AI tools leverage multiple models from various providers, including OpenAI and Alibaba Group.
Expansion of Social Features
Earlier this year, Airbnb expanded its offerings beyond accommodations, incorporating tours and individual services. New social features are also being added to enhance user interaction.
- Guests can now share their Airbnb profiles with fellow travelers after booking experiences.
- Users on similar tours can message each other, with privacy controls in place for communication requests.
Chesky indicated that these social features might evolve into user-generated content, allowing for travel inspiration directly on the Airbnb platform. He stated, “I think the social features, the community, that’s probably the most differentiated part of Airbnb.”
