Google’s AI Travel Tool Disrupts Market, Pressures Expedia and Booking Holdings
Google's stock (GOOGL) surged as its new AI-powered travel planning feature sent shockwaves through the online travel sector. The tech giant's integrated itinerary builder combines flight searches, hotel bookings, and deal aggregations—directly challenging Expedia (EXPE), Booking Holdings (BKNG), and Trip.com (TRIP).
The tool's 'Create with Canvas' function delivers personalized recommendations through conversational AI, while upgraded Flight Deals algorithms spotlight last-minute bargains. Google further escalates competition by embedding restaurant reservations and event ticketing via partners like OpenTable and Ticketmaster—with direct flight/hotel bookings through Expedia reportedly imminent.