Airbnb Acquires AI and Design Startup GamePlanner.AI
Airbnb has made its first acquisition since going public in 2019 by acquiring AI and design startup GamePlanner.AI. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but reports suggest that Airbnb paid around $200 million for the startup. Co-founded by Adam Cheyer, creator of Viv Labs (predecessor to Siri and Bixby), and Siamak Hodjat, former executive at Siri and Viv, GamePlanner.AI operates at the intersection of AI and design to enhance interactive digital features.
Little is Known about GamePlanner.AI
GamePlanner.AI has been operating in stealth mode with limited online presence, making it difficult to gather information about its projects. The startup’s name suggests a focus on video game-related work, but details are scarce. Airbnb’s interest in GamePlanner.AI is not immediately clear, but the company has expressed a desire to incorporate generative AI as a travel assistant that can learn user habits and preferences. Airbnb already uses AI technology behind the scenes and recently introduced an AI feature called Photo Tour.
Combining Expertise in AI, Design, and Community
Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky highlighted the unique combination of AI, design, and community expertise that GamePlanner.AI brings to the table. Chesky believes that AI will significantly impact the world and wants to ensure it positively augments humanity. He sees Airbnb as a humanistic company and hopes that partnering with GamePlanner.AI will result in the development of exceptional AI interfaces and practical applications.
Long-Term Plans and Shared Vision
While specific plans for GamePlanner.AI and its team have not been revealed, there are hints of long-term collaboration. Adam Cheyer, co-founder of GamePlanner.AI and Viv Labs, has expressed his vision for AI and believes that great design and community-based intelligence are crucial for unlocking AI’s full potential. Cheyer sees Airbnb as a partner that shares this vision and understands the importance of using AI to foster human connection.
In conclusion, Airbnb’s acquisition of GamePlanner.AI demonstrates its commitment to incorporating AI technology into its platform. By joining forces with GamePlanner.AI, Airbnb aims to leverage AI and design expertise to enhance user experiences and develop innovative AI applications. The acquisition aligns with Airbnb’s aspiration to use AI in a humanistic and positive manner, ultimately benefiting its community of travelers.