Google’s AI Mode can now track flight prices, help book hotels, and more

Google is significantly upgrading its conversational search experience, AI Mode, transforming it from a simple information-gathering tool into a comprehensive digital travel assistant. The company announced on Thursday that it is rolling out new capabilities that allow users to track flight fluctuations, secure hotel reservations, and even calculate travel costs using loyalty points and miles.

From Search to Booking

These updates signal a strategic shift for Google. By moving beyond merely surfacing links, the tech giant is positioning AI Mode to handle the heavy lifting of the travel planning lifecycle. Users can now input specific travel dates and destinations, prompting the AI to aggregate the best available options from a massive database of over 300 airlines and travel providers.

Once a user identifies a preferred itinerary, they can finalize their plans directly within the interface. For those not yet ready to commit, the tool offers a proactive price-tracking feature. By simply asking the AI to monitor a specific route, users will receive email notifications if prices drop, ensuring they never miss a deal. This flight-tracking functionality is currently live in more than 180 countries.

"The updates indicate that Google is looking to position AI Mode as an AI travel agent of sorts, as it's moving beyond simply helping users find information to actually handling parts of the trip-planning and booking process."

Streamlined Hotel Reservations

In addition to air travel, Google is simplifying the hotel booking experience. Users can now describe their trip preferences to AI Mode, which will return a curated list of accommodations complete with reviews and essential details.

The booking process is designed for efficiency:

• Integrated Partners: Users can select the "Continue on Google" option to finalize bookings through major partners, including Expedia, Booking.com, Hilton, Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Choice Hotels International, Hotels.com, Priceline, Trip.com, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
• Seamless Checkout: Once a room is selected, users can review cancellation policies and complete the transaction securely using Google Pay.
• Customer Support: Google clarifies that the actual booking platform or hotel chain remains responsible for the reservation and any necessary customer service inquiries.

This feature has begun its rollout in the U.S. in English and will expand its reach over the coming weeks.

Loyalty Points and Miles Integration

Perhaps the most requested feature for frequent travelers is the ability to account for loyalty programs. AI Mode now allows users to query costs in terms of points or miles. For example, a user can ask, "I want to travel from Atlanta to Miami using my AA miles. Help me find some options for nonstop flights departing Oct 9 and returning on Oct 12."

The AI will then display the specific mileage requirements for matching flights. This update is available globally, providing a significant advantage for travelers looking to maximize their rewards. By integrating these complex logistics into a single conversational flow, Google is clearly aiming to become the primary hub for modern travel planning.