In a bold move that reflects the ongoing transformation of the travel industry, Airbnb has announced a major redesign of its mobile app. This isn’t just a visual upgrade—it signals a strategic evolution of Airbnb’s platform from a home-rental service to an all-encompassing travel and lifestyle brand.
For years, Airbnb has been synonymous with alternative accommodations: cozy lofts in urban centers, beachside cottages, and rural retreats. But with this latest announcement, the company is venturing further into personal travel services, allowing users to book experiences and amenities once reserved for hotel guests or luxury travelers.
Now, Airbnb guests—and even those who aren’t staying at an Airbnb—can access a suite of Airbnb Services, ranging from private chefs to massages and spa treatments. With curated categories and a vetted roster of experienced professionals, Airbnb is betting that the future of travel includes more personalized, on-demand services—and they’re putting everything in one sleek app.
The Evolution of Airbnb
Airbnb began in 2008 with a simple concept: rent out an air mattress in your apartment to help pay the bills. Founders Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia transformed that idea into a tech unicorn that now spans more than 220 countries and regions.
Over the years, Airbnb has introduced innovations to go beyond home rentals. Airbnb Experiences, launched in 2016, allowed hosts to offer local activities—like guided hikes, pasta-making classes, or photo tours. This expansion diversified revenue and enhanced the guest journey.
Next came Airbnb Luxe, targeting high-end travelers with multi-million-dollar properties and concierge services. When the pandemic hit, Airbnb responded swiftly with Online Experiences, giving homebound users a way to travel virtually.
These moves laid the groundwork for Airbnb’s new focus: becoming a comprehensive travel ecosystem. The company’s redesign is more than cosmetic; it reflects a long-term shift toward facilitating every aspect of a trip—not just where you sleep.
The New Airbnb App Redesign
The refreshed app consolidates stays, experiences, and services into a single platform with a user-friendly interface. It’s designed to be intuitive: travelers can scroll through their itinerary, view recommendations, and add services with a tap.
Highlights of the redesign include:
- A “My Trip” dashboard that integrates bookings, services, and maps
- Improved filters and search tools for both properties and activities
- A standalone section for Airbnb Services, featuring reviews, photos, and pricing
This seamless integration means travelers can now plan and personalize every part of their trip—from airport pickup to a celebratory dinner—without switching between apps or services.
Introducing Airbnb Services
Perhaps the most significant update is the launch of Airbnb Services, a curated marketplace of personal travel amenities available for anyone—not just Airbnb guests. These services span a wide range of categories:
- Private Chefs
- Catering
- Massage Therapy
- Spa Treatments
- Personal Trainers
- Yoga Instructors
- Makeup and Beauty
- Hair Styling
- Childcare and Babysitting
- Pet Care
Want a private chef to cook a four-course meal in your vacation rental? Need a massage after a day of hiking? How about a personal trainer to keep your fitness on track while traveling? Airbnb’s new offering makes it as easy as booking a dinner reservation.
All service providers undergo Airbnb’s vetting process, including:
- A review of professional licenses and certifications
- Identity verification
- Assessment of experience and reputation
Pricing varies, with many entry-level services starting at accessible price points—making luxury more attainable to the average traveler.
Comparing Airbnb Services vs. Airbnb Experiences
It’s easy to confuse Experiences and Services, but they cater to different needs.
Experiences are typically hosted events or activities: wine tasting, local tours, or surfing lessons. They often involve groups and are scheduled in advance.
Services, on the other hand, are personal, often one-on-one, and happen in your accommodation or chosen location.
Services are designed for customization and convenience, filling a gap for those who want amenities tailored to their personal schedule, rather than set times and formats.
How the Booking Process Works
Booking a service through the new app is straightforward:
- Navigate to the Services tab from the homepage
- Browse categories or use filters based on location, price, or ratings
- View provider profiles with reviews, qualifications, and sample menus or treatments
- Choose a time slot and input your location (no Airbnb stay required)
- Confirm and pay directly through the app
You can also bundle services with your trip itinerary or modify plans with in-app messaging, making planning ultra-flexible.
Real User Experiences
Early adopters are already praising the service.
Samantha K., a traveler from Los Angeles, booked a private chef in Napa Valley. “We had a four-course meal in our rental without needing to leave the house—it felt like a restaurant came to us,” she shared.
Mark and Jenna, honeymooners in Maui, used Airbnb Services to schedule a couples’ massage and a romantic catered picnic. “It elevated the whole experience,” they said. “We didn’t feel like tourists. Everything was customized.”
However, some users noted that availability can vary by location, especially in less-populated areas, and that prices tend to rise in peak season.
Business Strategy Behind the Expansion
Airbnb’s move into lifestyle services reflects a larger strategic play. By entering the concierge service and gig economy space, Airbnb is positioning itself against hotel chains with built-in amenities and startups offering on-demand local services.
This approach increases Airbnb’s revenue per customer and diversifies its income stream. It also creates a network effect: the more services people use through Airbnb, the more valuable the app becomes—whether or not you book a stay.
And by opening services to non-guests, Airbnb is no longer limited to its existing lodging base—it’s targeting anyone planning a celebration, wellness retreat, or special occasion.
Expert Opinions and Market Reactions
Industry analysts have reacted positively, calling it a natural progression for the brand.
“Airbnb is closing the gap between vacation rental and full-service hospitality,” said Jessica Palmer, a travel tech analyst. “It’s about controlling the experience from start to finish.”
Hosts and service providers also benefit, gaining a new channel for reaching high-intent customers. But some independent platforms worry Airbnb could dominate the space by leveraging its massive user base.
What’s Next for Airbnb?
While Airbnb Services are currently U.S.-based, the company plans to expand internationally, beginning with key travel markets like Europe and Southeast Asia.
Future categories could include:
- In-home beauty services
- Pet sitting and walking
- Grocery delivery
- Event planning
By transforming into a lifestyle travel platform, Airbnb aims to support users not just during vacations—but for any memorable moment, anywhere.
Frequently Asked Question
What are Airbnb Services?
Airbnb Services are personalized, on-demand offerings that include things like private chefs, massage therapists, personal trainers, and more. These services can be booked through the Airbnb app and do not require booking a stay.
How are Airbnb Services different from Airbnb Experiences?
Services are private, personalized, and typically happen in your home or accommodation, such as a massage or private dinner.
Experiences are usually group-based activities or tours hosted at a specific location and scheduled in advance, like a guided hike or cooking class.
Do I have to book an Airbnb stay to use these services?
No. Airbnb Services can be booked independently of a stay. You can use the app to find and schedule services even if you’re staying elsewhere or living in the city.
What types of services are available?
Available categories include:
- Private chefs
- Catering
- Massage therapy
- Spa treatments
- Personal trainers
- Yoga instructors
- Hair and makeup
- Childcare
- Pet care
- Beauty and wellness
Additional categories may be introduced over time.
How are service providers vetted?
Airbnb vets providers based on identity verification, experience, relevant certifications or licenses, and customer reviews. Many providers have several years of experience and are selected for their professionalism and reliability.
How much do services cost?
Pricing varies by location, provider, and service type. Some offerings are affordably priced, while others reflect luxury experiences. You can view all pricing upfront in the Airbnb app before booking.
Where can I access Airbnb Services?
Airbnb Services are currently available in select locations within the United States, with plans to expand to more cities and countries in the future.
Can I modify or cancel a service after booking?
Yes, most services offer flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies. You can manage your bookings directly through the app under your Trips or Services tab.
Can locals use Airbnb Services, or is it just for travelers?
Locals are welcome to book services. You don’t need to be traveling or staying in an Airbnb to use them. These services can also be used for events, self-care days, or home-based celebrations.
Conclusion
Airbnb’s app redesign marks a turning point for the brand. No longer just a place to book unique stays, the platform is evolving into a comprehensive destination planner—one that offers personalized, on-demand services to elevate any experience.
