IHG Hotels & Resorts is gearing up to revolutionize travel planning with a cutting-edge tool fueled by Google's artificial intelligence. Scheduled for release in the latter half of the year, this innovation will be integrated into IHG's One Rewards mobile app, a platform continuously enhanced since its relaunch almost two years ago.
In an exclusive interview with Skift, Josh Weiss, IHG's VP of guest digital products, revealed that the AI trip planner will initially focus on guiding users through the initial stages of travel planning, igniting inspiration for potential destinations.
Carrie Tharp, Google Cloud's VP of strategic industries, hailed IHG's collaboration with Google as groundbreaking. This marks Google's first venture into integrating its generative AI technology with a hospitality giant, signifying a promising trajectory for the future of travel tech.
Utilizing Google's advanced Vertex AI platform and the proprietary Gemini model, IHG aims to offer unparalleled convenience and customization to its guests. The partnership, initiated in 2022 with IHG's migration to the Google Cloud database, underscores Google's pivotal role in optimizing IHG's data infrastructure for innovative solutions.
IHG's long-term vision for the AI trip planner extends beyond mere itinerary suggestions. The chatbot, empowered by Google's expansive data repository and IHG's insights, aspires to provide comprehensive assistance from pre-booking inquiries to on-site recommendations.
Third-party integrations with travel service providers for activities and bookings further enrich the user experience. With the ability to respond to specific queries like nearby dining options or pet policies, IHG's AI trip planner promises a seamless and personalized travel journey.
As IHG prepares to unveil its innovative tool, user feedback will serve as a compass for future enhancements. Whether refining hotel-related features or amplifying local experiences, IHG remains committed to adapting the tool to meet evolving traveler preferences.
While acknowledging the inevitable learning curve, IHG reassures users of a seamless transition. The AI trip planner caters to both early adopters seeking innovation and traditionalists accustomed to conventional booking methods.
Google Cloud's Tharp emphasizes the importance of iterative learning in the pursuit of travel innovation. She encourages companies to embrace imperfections and iterate based on real-time feedback, rather than waiting for flawless solutions.
Weiss echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the tool's role as a pioneer in reshaping travel planning. As IHG embarks on this transformative journey, embracing user feedback and adapting to emerging trends will be pivotal in shaping the future of travel tech.
In summary, IHG's partnership with Google heralds a new era of AI-driven travel planning, promising enhanced convenience and personalization for globetrotters worldwide. As the industry embraces innovation, the journey towards seamless travel experiences continues to evolve, one algorithm at a time.
Source: Skift