Airbnb Introduces App-Based Offerings for Unique Experiences and Services
In a groundbreaking move, Airbnb has announced a strategic expansion of its platform, aiming to revolutionise travel once again. According to CEO Brian Chesky, "Now you can Airbnb more than an Airbnb."
The new Airbnb platform, launched in 2025, features significant updates across three key pillars: Airbnb Services, revamped Airbnb Experiences, and a redesigned app. These updates are part of Airbnb's ambitious strategic expansion.
- Airbnb Services
Introduced as an integral new category, Airbnb Services allow guests to book add-ons during their stays, transforming properties into full experience hubs. Services range from personal chefs and spa treatments to fitness sessions, photography, pet care, grocery delivery, car rentals, and event planning. These services are available in over 260 cities worldwide. Early results show significant revenue boosts for hosts, with increases of 35-50% in booking value through these add-ons.
- Revamped Airbnb Experiences
Airbnb Experiences are now more tightly integrated into the entire booking flow and stay journey, moving from a standalone feature to a fully integrated part of the guest experience. The offering has been curated into distinct categories such as food, culture, outdoor adventures, and wellness. Notably, 40% of Airbnb Originals and 10% of Services bookings come from locals, indicating an expansion beyond typical travelers.
- New Airbnb App
The platform features a redesigned Explore tab to browse homes, services, and experiences in one place. The app now supports enhanced messaging capabilities including photo and video sharing, facilitating richer interaction between hosts and guests. Integrated payments streamline booking and customising services without leaving the Airbnb ecosystem. Hosts providing integrated services receive priority placement in search results, incentivising adoption of the new ecosystem.
Additional notable updates include Airbnb’s move toward becoming an AI-first application. This AI functionality is expected to expand from customer service into travel planning and booking assistance.
Airbnb's 2025 overhaul represents a strategic bet (with a $200-250 million investment) to evolve from a stay-focused platform to a full travel and lifestyle ecosystem, competing more directly with hotels by offering seamless, hyper-local, and experience-rich stays.
In summary, the key features and updates of the new Airbnb platform include: - A broad and growing Services ecosystem expanding stay-related offerings and driving host revenue. - A revamped Experiences integration focused on curation and social engagement throughout the travel journey. - An entirely redesigned app enabling seamless browsing, communication, payment, and booking of homes, services, and experiences. - Enhanced AI-powered tools aimed at improving guest and host support, streamlining travel planning, and increasing personalization.
Professionals can apply to become Airbnb Services or Experiences hosts at airbnb.com/host. All features and app upgrades roll out globally starting today.
[1] Airbnb Press Release, 2025 [2] TechCrunch, 2025 [3] The Verge, 2025 [4] CNBC, 2025
Travelers can now enrich their experiences with technology-integrated services such as personal chefs, spa treatments, or pet care, all bookable directly through the redesigned Airbnb app. Moreover, the platform's revamped travel and lifestyle ecosystem also includes curated travel experiences within food, culture, outdoor adventures, and wellness categories, allowing users to seamlessly plan and book their journeys.
