The CEO of Airbnb, Brian Chesky, is planning the launch of a new artificial intelligence company, making his first major business move in the rapidly growing AI sector, while simultaneously remaining at the helm of the short-term rental platform.
According to a Bloomberg report, Chesky is in the early stages of developing an artificial intelligence laboratory (AI Lab), which will focus on creating new AI technologies, with a particular emphasis on how users interact with AI systems and how these can become more user-friendly and practical in daily life.
For now, few details have been made known about the venture. Sources cited by Bloomberg report that Chesky will maintain his position as CEO of Airbnb, without, however, taking over the day-to-day management of the new company.
The initiative comes at a time when artificial intelligence is gaining ever-greater importance in the travel and technology sector. Although Airbnb already utilizes AI tools to accelerate software development and other internal operations, it has followed a more conservative strategy compared to competitors such as Expedia and Booking Holdings, which have integrated ChatGPT-based capabilities through partnerships with OpenAI.
Airbnb’s strategy against AI competition
Airbnb’s strategy against AI competitionChesky has previously expressed the view that many of today’s AI applications are not yet fully mature for mass use in the travel industry, arguing that travelers need more interactive and “hands-free” experiences than those offered by today’s text chatbots.
The move is part of Airbnb’s strategy to expand its activity beyond traditional accommodation bookings, investing in new services and travel experiences that will bolster the company’s growth prospects in the coming years.
Airbnb representatives declined to comment on Bloomberg’s information.
The most interesting element, however, is not only that Chesky is entering AI, but that he seems to be looking for a different approach from the ChatGPT-based travel tools already launched by his competitors. This could be a precursor to new artificial intelligence applications in travel design and experience in the coming years.
