Google has started rolling out a suite of travel planning features within its AI Mode in Search, aiming to help users find flights, monitor ticket prices, and even complete hotel bookings. The new tools are designed to streamline the entire travel planning process, from initial search to final reservation.
Flight Price Tracking and Alerts
One of the standout additions is a flight price tracking tool, inspired by Google Flights. Users can specify their desired destination and travel dates, and AI Mode will present options from over 300 airlines and travel sites. Once price tracking is activated, Google sends email notifications whenever there are changes to flight prices for the selected route and dates.
This feature is currently available in all regions and languages where AI Mode is offered, with the exception of countries and territories within the European Economic Area.
Using Miles and Points for Travel
AI Mode now also enables users worldwide to check the cost of flights and hotels using miles and points. After setting a destination and travel dates, users can see the mileage cost of a flight ticket or request hotel pricing in reward points.
In its initial phase, the feature supports rewards programs from Alaska Airlines/Hawaiian Airlines and American Airlines, as well as Choice Hotels International, Hilton, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. Google plans to add support for Accor, Flying Blue, Hyatt, LATAM Airlines, and Lufthansa Group in the near future.
Direct Hotel Booking via AI Mode
Beyond hotel search, Google now allows users to book accommodations directly through AI Mode. After entering trip details and preferences, the system displays hotel options along with guest ratings and reviews, and users can complete the reservation using Google Pay.
Hotel booking is initially rolling out in the United States in English, with support from partner booking sites and companies including Expedia, Marriott International, and Priceline. Google says it plans to expand availability of this feature in the coming weeks.
From Answers to Actions
With these updates, Google is positioning AI Mode as a comprehensive travel assistant that can handle multiple stages of trip planning—from searching and comparing flight prices to tracking fare changes and booking hotels. The move reflects a broader shift from AI as a question-answering tool to a proactive helper that can execute complex tasks on behalf of the user.
