Airbnb’s New App Combines Vacation Rentals with Personal Services

Airbnb has launched a major redesign of its mobile app, expanding its core offerings beyond vacation home rentals to include a variety of personal services. This strategic move positions Airbnb as a more comprehensive travel platform, allowing users to book not only accommodations but also services such as personal chefs, trainers, stylists, and spa treatments.

The new Airbnb Services cover ten categories, including catering, massages, and personal training, all provided by vetted professionals with an average of 10 years of experience. Providers undergo identity verification and must submit relevant licenses and certifications, ensuring quality and trust for users.

Importantly, these services can be booked independently of lodging, enabling users to access Airbnb’s offerings even without reserving a stay. This flexibility broadens Airbnb’s market reach and enhances user convenience.

The app redesign also introduces a new Explore tab, which provides personalized recommendations for homes, experiences, and services tailored to specific destinations. Additionally, a trips tab helps users organize their itineraries, and the messaging platform now supports photo and video sharing for richer communication.

Hosts benefit from an updated interface featuring a reservations management tab, a daily and hourly calendar view, and enhanced listing management tools. These improvements streamline hosting operations and improve user experience on both sides of the platform.

By integrating diverse services and experiences into a single app, Airbnb is redefining travel convenience and personalization. This approach not only drives user engagement but also opens new revenue streams by catering to a broader range of traveler needs.