Google's AI Mode is about to revolutionize your booking experience! 🥳 But here's where it gets exciting: they're introducing agentic booking capabilities, allowing AI to act as your personal assistant for reservations and appointments.
The AI Mode Update:
Google is rolling out an update to AI Mode, a Search Labs experiment, enabling it to handle complex booking tasks. It's like having a personal assistant who can search multiple websites to book restaurant reservations, event tickets, and wellness appointments.
Limited Availability:
This feature is currently in its early stages and may not be accessible to all users. Google's VP of Product, Robby Stein, announced the rollout on X, with the new capabilities available to US users in Labs.
Enhanced Booking Abilities:
AI Mode now performs multi-site searches for restaurant reservations, event tickets, and wellness appointments. It provides real-time options, curated lists of time slots, and ticket prices. For instance, you can ask for a dinner reservation for a specific party size, time, neighborhood, or cuisine, and AI Mode will deliver!
Example:
"Find me a dinner spot for 4 people on Saturday at 8 pm in the city center. We're in the mood for Italian or Mexican." AI Mode will present available options with booking links.
Event Tickets and Wellness Appointments:
Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers get exclusive access to search for concert tickets with preferred prices and seating. For wellness appointments, AI Mode connects you to local service providers for real-time bookings.
How it Works Behind the Scenes:
AI Mode scours multiple websites, curates a list of options, and links you directly to the provider's booking page. It simplifies the process, reducing the steps needed to compare times and prices across various sites.
Requirements for Full Access:
To use this feature, you'll need a personal Google Account, enabled Web & App Activity, Search Labs access, a US location with English language settings, and be 18 or older.
Controversial Convenience:
This update raises questions about the future of online bookings. While it offers convenience, some may argue it reduces the need for human interaction. Is this a step towards a more efficient booking process or a potential concern for human agency?
Looking Forward:
Google acknowledges this as an early experiment and welcomes feedback. As availability expands, will AI Mode become the go-to tool for bookings? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🗣️
