TechCrunch Startup News AI agents aren’t the ‘new Google,’ says Airbnb CEO
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Aug 12, 2025 The CEO of Airbnb explores the evolving role of AI in the travel industry, revealing how the company is navigating this new terrain. He compares AI chatbots to traditional search engines, emphasizing distinct differences in user experience. The conversation addresses both the enhancements AI can bring and its current limitations, providing insights into the future of customer service in the sharing economy. Chesky's candid remarks reflect the ongoing adaptation and innovation within tech-driven travel.
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Chatbots Aren't The New Google
- Brian Chesky warns not to assume chatbots replace Google yet.
- AI agents are still being figured out across the industry.
Models Are Not Proprietary
- Chesky highlights that major models powering chatbots aren't exclusive to one company.
- Airbnb can use the same APIs as others, limiting proprietary moat.
Tune Models And Build Custom Interfaces
- Don't rely on raw model quality alone; tune models for your use case.
- Build custom interfaces tailored to the application to capture value.