At a glamorous press conference in Los Angeles on Tuesday, Airbnb’s CEO Brian Chesky introduced a refreshed version of the company’s app, featuring two significant new offerings: curated “Experiences” and professional “Services.”
Chesky commenced the event by reminiscing about Airbnb’s humble beginnings. Launched in 2007, the company started when he rented out his San Francisco apartment to travelers. Since then, Airbnb has transformed into a worldwide platform, achieving 272 million bookings in 2019. Nevertheless, like much of the travel sector, Airbnb faced a steep downturn during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now, as travel recovers and Airbnb reached profitability for the first time in 2022, the company is extending its services beyond home and apartment rentals. The updated Airbnb app now permits users to reserve a range of professional services—including private chefs, massages, makeup artists, fitness sessions, and photographers. These “Services” are currently accessible in 260 cities and are available to everyone, not just those booking stays via Airbnb.
Additionally, Airbnb is expanding its “Experiences” options. These curated activities include spiritual temple tours in Peru and mezcal tastings with sommeliers in Mexico City. A new premium category, “Airbnb Originals,” will showcase exclusive experiences led by well-known figures. Examples feature dance lessons in Seoul with a K-pop star, an insider tour of Notre Dame with a restoration architect, and a creative session with Megan Thee Stallion to create your own alter ego. Megan was in attendance at the launch, alongside celebrities like Doechii, Karlie Kloss, and a variety of influencers.
Jud Coplan, Airbnb’s Vice President of Product Marketing, stated that these new offerings aim to keep users engaged with Airbnb even after their trips by integrating experiences and services into their daily lives.
Airbnb highlighted that all Services and Experiences providers undergo thorough vetting. Hosts must complete identity verification, possess an average of 10 years of experience, and provide relevant licenses and certifications.
The company also views these new features as a means to assist current hosts—particularly those encountering difficulties like a downturn in Canadian travelers—by allowing them to broaden their offerings. Hosts interested in participation can submit applications through Airbnb’s website.
The revised Airbnb app features a host of new tools to improve user experience. These include simplified booking for Experiences and Services, enhanced messaging and photo-sharing capabilities for travel companions, and a more sophisticated calendar that synchronizes with Google Calendar. A revamped Profile section now enables users to access their travel history and easily reconnect with contacts they have met via Airbnb.
With these enhancements, Airbnb aims to establish itself as more than just a place to find accommodation—it seeks to become a platform for unforgettable, personalized travel and lifestyle experiences.