Airbnb Launches App Offering Experiences and Services for Users
Airbnb has announced a significant overhaul of its services, marking the company's biggest update in years. The changes aim to position Airbnb as more than just a lodging platform, rivalling traditional full-service travel companies by offering end-to-end trip experiences.
Introducing Airbnb Services
Airbnb has launched a new category called Airbnb Services, offering mid-trip upgrades such as early check-in, airport rides, private chefs, trainers, spa treatments, and wellness options. These services are now available in 260 cities and are expanding rapidly, supported by a $200 million investment in 2025 to build infrastructure like teams and vetting tools.
About 10% of Services bookings come from locals, not just travelers, indicating a growing interest in these offerings among the local community. Airbnb Services is now open for professionals to apply as hosts at airbnb.com/host.
Reimagining Airbnb Experiences
Airbnb Experiences have been reimagined and are now more tightly integrated into the booking flow. These experiences include local-led activities, cultural events, and unique outings like Michelin-star ramen tastings. Around 40% of Airbnb Originals bookings are made by locals, indicating a shift toward local demand and a year-round platform use, not limited to travelers.
Airbnb Experiences are now available in 650 cities, an expansion from the original 250 cities. New Airbnb Originals include anime cosplay with Megan Thee Stallion and cooking classes with Michelin chefs.
The New Airbnb App
The new Airbnb app, which underwent a significant transformation as part of the Summer Release update, functions as a full-service travel app. It combines stays, experiences, and services in one place to offer a more seamless and personalized trip planning experience.
Key changes include the integration of Services and Experiences directly into the booking flow, the introduction of "Reserve Now, Pay Later," a new feature in the U.S. and Canada allowing guests to secure bookings without upfront payment, and greater use of AI for guest support and operational efficiency. However, some concerns about AI missing contextual host issues have been raised.
The user experience design focuses on simplicity for guests, potentially limiting customization options for hosts. The new app comes with personalized recommendations, smart itineraries, upgraded messaging, and new tools for hosts.
Changing Travel Again
With these new offerings, Airbnb is aiming to change travel again by providing more than just space. The company is now offering hotel-style add-ons, curated local experiences, and often events led by top-tier talent. The all-new app is designed to turn a trip into a fully customizable experience, all in one platform.
Airbnb's CEO, Brian Chesky, stated that now you can Airbnb more than an Airbnb and that the company is changing travel again. The new features and app upgrades from Airbnb are rolling out globally, starting today.
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Airbnb Services offers technology-powered services like private chefs, trainers, and wellness options, aiming to elevate travel experiences beyond lodging and attract both locals and travelers.
The technology-infused lifestyle changes are evident in Airbnb's new app, designed for seamless trip planning that integrates stays, experiences, and services, all tailored to the user's preferences.
