August 7, 2025:
Airbnb CEO: AI Not Yet a Google Replacement - Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky warns against considering AI chatbots a replacement for Google, highlighting AI's current limitations. While AI can generate leads, it lacks proprietary ownership and needs customization for effectiveness. Airbnb's AI customer service agent has reduced human contact by 15% and plans to expand in languages and personalization.
Despite AI's integration in search next year, Chesky emphasizes that users still require Airbnb accounts for bookings. He views AI primarily as a tool for lead generation, not for commoditizing the travel business. Airbnb reported strong Q2 results but cautioned about slower growth in the future.
