IHG
Hotels & Resorts (IHG), announced the beta launch of AI-powered
conversational search in their website along with the IHG One Rewards mobile
app.
The new conversational search capability brings intuitive,
customized trip planning into IHG’s digital channels, making it easier for
guests to book more than 7,000 hotels
globally.
Additionally, the functionality allows hotel owners to increase
their property visibility in AI searches and connect travelers to what they
want. The platform will support new content such as floor plans, videos and third-party
digital channels, allowing hotels to better showcase their unique attributes
and improve matches to travelers seeking specific experiences and amenities.
As a scaled launch
approach, the app will roll out in the U.S. before expanding to users across
multiple markets. IHG will continue to refine the experience based on user behavior
and feedback.
Elie Maalouf, Chief Executive Officer, IHG Hotels &
Resorts, said in a statement, “Launching conversational search in IHG’s digital
channels transforms how guests interact with IHG and discover our incredible
collection of hotels around the world. It’s a milestone that builds on years of
strategic investment in our digital foundations, including the unification of
our data in the cloud and the continued evolution of our best-in-class
technology platforms.”
He added, “With these capabilities in place, and more to
follow, we are very well positioned to harness the power of AI at scale and
deliver rich, inspiring and seamless travel experiences that delight our guests
and deliver benefits to our hotel owners.”
Travelers searching on IHG.com and the One Rewards app can
now describe their travel needs using everyday language. Prompts such as
destination, trip purpose, preferences and amenities can serve up tailored
hotel recommendations and content including interactive maps, real-time
availability, pricing and detailed property information. In addition to cash
rates, travelers will have the ability to shop in points or a combination of
points and cash.
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