Google has introduced a new feature that leverages AI technology to enhance travel planning. The latest development allows users to interact with Google’s AI Mode, enabling them to describe their upcoming trips and generate detailed itineraries through the ‘Create with Canvas’ option. This tool constructs a comprehensive travel plan on a side panel, including essential information on flights and accommodations. By incorporating user inputs and data from Google Maps, the AI Mode suggests potential activities, accompanied by photos and reviews.
Users can further customize their plans by refining details or making specific requests, such as seeking hotel recommendations based on budget constraints or desired amenities. This functionality is currently available to US users who have opted into AI Mode in Labs, with the ability to access and manage drafted plans conveniently within the AI Mode’s interface.
Initially launched as a dynamic workspace for Gemini, the Canvas feature has evolved to enrich the travel planning experience within AI Mode on Google Search. This enhancement caters to individual travelers and poses a competitive challenge to existing travel platforms like Kayak and Expedia, which are also investing in AI-powered capabilities.
Moreover, Google is extending the AI Mode’s capabilities beyond travel planning by introducing agentic booking features for events, local appointments, and now restaurant reservations. This seamless integration enables users to explore various options and finalize bookings through Google’s partnering services like OpenTable and Resy.
Source: The Verge