Since it emerged in 2007, Airbnb has continuously transformed the landscape of the hospitality sector. At its recent Summer Release event, the company unveiled substantial updates to its app, aimed at improving the ease with which users can explore its vast array of listings while raising the bar for what travelers can expect from diverse accommodations around the world.
Although Airbnb rentals often offer more space compared to standard hotels, they can sometimes fall short in certain amenities like fitness facilities, dining options, or wellness services. In response to this, Airbnb has launched a feature known as Airbnb Services. This allows guests to book a variety of services—such as massages, hair styling, or gourmet meal preparations—right at their rental properties.
This initiative aims to address the service deficiencies typically found in hotels, enabling guests to customize and choose services that align seamlessly with their preferences.
In a related push, Airbnb Experiences seeks to turn everyday activities into unforgettable adventures. This feature allows travelers to book unique activities led by locals at their chosen destinations, resulting in memorable experiences. The launch event highlighted a range of talented hosts to support this endeavor.
Central to these improvements is the revamped app, which now promises easier navigation and acts as a reliable companion throughout your travels. When booking accommodations, along with services or experiences, the app compiles everything into a single itinerary, complete with important reminders.
1. Explore Services for Haircuts, Massages, or Catered Meals
Among these new features, Services has gained considerable traction among users. Airbnb has streamlined service bookings to eliminate the need for host approvals, pre-vetting providers and offering ten different service categories right from the start, such as personal chefs, photographers, massage therapists, personal training, and catering options.
This feature will initially be available in 260 cities around the globe and can be accessed directly through the Airbnb app. After completing a booking, users will see a dedicated ‘Services’ section offering personalized recommendations.
Airbnb takes care in vetting its service providers, requiring each to have around ten years of expertise in their field. All service providers must go through an evaluation process, showcasing relevant qualifications or training certificates.
In the U.S., service prices will begin at approximately $50, while initial pricing in the UK and Australia will be around £40 and AU$80, respectively. The rollout is currently underway, and Airbnb is actively inviting potential service providers to join the platform.
What’s particularly noteworthy is that users don’t need to book an Airbnb property to utilize Services or Experiences. For example, if you’re throwing a birthday party and need a photographer, you can simply access the Airbnb app on your iOS or Android device and browse through reviews to find the right fit. This holds true whether you’re seeking a hibachi chef for an event at an Airbnb or in your own home, or a caterer specializing in unique cuisine.
2. Unforgettable Moments: Experiences
Next to Services, users will encounter ‘Experiences’ denoted by a vibrant hot-air balloon icon in the Airbnb app. Similar to unique stays that Airbnb offers, such as the iconic house from Up or the control center from Inside Out, Experiences takes it a step further.
These special events, curated by local hosts, invite travelers to immerse themselves deeply in the local culture. From interactive cooking classes with Michelin-starred chefs to styling sessions with notable fashion experts, the options aim to provide an engaging experience.
This means instead of merely visiting historical sites, guests can engage in rich, guided tours led by knowledgeable historians or participate in specialized workout classes with experts. The emphasis is on creating authentic connections that foster a deeper understanding of the local culture.
Experiences will debut in 650 cities globally, with plans for further expansion. A premium tier, known as Airbnb Originals, is also in development, promising exclusive chances like dining experiences with sports personalities or engaging in recreational activities with athletes. While specific pricing details are not yet available, these premium offerings will likely resemble the Airbnb Icons, where participants will have the opportunity to enter contests for a chance to participate.
Most travelers will opt for standard Airbnb Experiences, which aim to elevate the traditional tourist experience.
3. Revamped App
The updated app not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also better integrates the new features into the overall Airbnb booking procedure—whether you’re looking at a seaside cottage, a trendy flat, or a charming cabin. This new layout promises a smoother user experience and evolves the app into a valuable tool, offering tips and reminders.
One highlighted enhancement allows for searches encompassing accommodations, services, and experiences in one coherent interface. With a newly established technical framework, Airbnb is set for future innovations and offerings. This shift signifies a strategic direction for Airbnb to become more than just a seasonal travel app; it aims to be a daily tool that facilitates both everyday and extraordinary bookings.
Carolina Milanesi, President and Principal Analyst at Creative Strategies, commented to Nova Play, “Expanding into services makes a lot of sense because it enriches the overall experience beyond just the stay and can greatly enhance it—you might want a personal trainer while traveling or book a photographer for a reunion event. The ability to book services even when you’re not staying indicates a desire to strengthen and deepen customer relationships through multiple yearly interactions.”
This thoughtful expansion has the potential to broaden Airbnb’s user demographic as well. We are excited to explore the new app features soon and may engage in an experience or two, so keep an eye out for further updates. If you’re eager to try out the new functionalities, ensure you update to the latest version of the Airbnb app.
