3 new ways to plan and book travel in Search

Google has expanded AI Mode in Search with three new travel features, announced by James Byers, Group Product Manager for Search. The upgrades let people track flight prices, see points or miles rates, and book hotels within the AI Mode conversation.

Flight price tracking from Google Flights is now built into AI Mode, so users can set up price alerts while chatting. After describing where and when they want to fly, they see options with current prices from more than 300 partner airlines and travel sites. Requests such as "track these flight prices for me" trigger email alerts when prices change for the chosen destination and dates. Booking is completed on the airline's website or another booking platform. This feature is available in more than 180 countries and territories.

AI Mode can also display the points or miles cost for flights and hotels, drawing on data directly from partners. A user might ask for nonstop Atlanta-to-Miami flights using American Airlines miles for specific October dates, and the response shows the miles needed. Hotel rewards work the same way, with a link to the partner site to finish redemption. Viewing points and miles rates is globally available. Initial partners are Alaska Airlines/Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, Choice Hotels International, Hilton, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, with Accor, Flying Blue, Hyatt, LATAM Airlines, and Lufthansa Group to be added in the coming weeks.

Hotel booking through AI Mode is starting to roll out in the U.S. in English and will reach more users over the coming weeks. Users describe their trip and preferences to get a visual list with guest reviews and comparison factors, then choose "Continue on Google" alongside integrated partners. They select a room type, review details such as the cancellation policy, and pay securely with Google Pay. The hotel or booking platform is the merchant of record and handles customer service. Launch partners include Booking.com, Choice Hotels International, Expedia, Hilton, Hotels.com, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Priceline, Trip.com, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.