Google is taking AI Mode one step further from being an information retrieval tool to a travel planning and booking platform. The company announced that users can now use this conversational search product to track flight prices, filter and book hotels, and also directly view the cost of flights and hotels when settling with points or miles.
Air ticket prices can be automatically tracked.
After users enter their destination and travel dates, AI Mode can continuously track changes in ticket prices and send reminders via email when there are price fluctuations. Google states that this flight price tracking feature currently covers more than 180 countries and regions.
This means that AI Mode no longer just provides search results, but begins to take on a portion of the travel decision-making process. For users who need to compare times and prices, the tracking feature can reduce the steps of repeated searches.
Hotel reservation integration with Google Pay
In the hotel scenario, users can directly inform AI Mode of their travel arrangements and accommodation preferences. The system will then provide a list of available hotels along with reviews and key information. After selecting a hotel, users can ask AI Mode to assist them with the booking process.
Subsequently, the page will display entries " Continue on Google ", which link to Google integrated partners, including hotel groups and travel platforms. Users can continue to select room types, view cancellation policies, and other details, and complete the payment through Google Pay.
Google indicates that the actual fulfillment of orders and subsequent customer service are still the responsibility of the hotel or booking platform. This feature has been launched in the United States in English, and will be gradually made available in the coming weeks. The first batch of participants includes Booking.com, Expedia, Hilton, Marriott International, Priceline, Trip.com, and others.
Display points and mileage costs
In addition to the cash price, AI Mode now also displays the corresponding points or mileage costs for flights and hotels. Users can directly make requests such as "Use AA miles to find a direct flight from Atlanta to Miami," and the system will return eligible options along with the required mileage.
According to Google, this feature for displaying points and mileage has been launched globally. As more booking processes are integrated into AI Mode, Google is attempting to extend conversational search to a more comprehensive consumer decision-making process.
