IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world’s leading hospitality companies, has launched beta testing of AI-powered conversational search on IHG.com and the IHG One Rewards mobile app. The move marks a new chapter in how travelers discover, plan and book hotel stays.
The new conversational search functionality brings customized trip planning directly into IHG’s digital channels. As a result, travelers can move more easily from inspiration and discovery to booking across more than 7,000 hotels worldwide.
At the same time, the technology gives hotel owners new opportunities to increase their property visibility in AI-powered searches. It can also help connect travelers with hotels that better match their preferences and needs.
The beta launch will begin in the US before expanding to users across multiple markets. Meanwhile, IHG will continue refining the experience based on user behavior and feedback.
A More Intuitive Way to Discover and Book
Travelers using IHG.com and the IHG One Rewards app can now describe their travel needs using everyday language. They can enter details such as their destination, trip purpose, preferences and desired amenities.
The AI-powered search can then provide tailored hotel recommendations and rich content. This includes interactive maps, real-time availability, pricing and detailed property information.
In addition to cash rates, travelers can search using points or a combination of points and cash. Recommendations are based on IHG’s verified property data and guest reviews. Therefore, users can access reliable information about hotels, photos and amenities while exploring their options.
During the beta period, IHG’s existing search functionality will remain available alongside the AI-powered option. This gives travelers a choice in how they search for and select their next stay.
Elie Maalouf, Chief Executive Officer of IHG Hotels & Resorts, said the launch represents a significant step in how guests interact with the company and discover its global hotel portfolio.
“Launching conversational search in IHG’s digital channels transforms how guests interact with IHG and discover our incredible collection of hotels around the world.”
Maalouf added that the launch builds on IHG’s investments in its digital infrastructure, including the unification of its data in the cloud and the continued development of its technology platforms.
With these capabilities in place, IHG aims to use AI at scale to create more personalized and seamless travel experiences while delivering benefits to hotel owners.
Making IHG Hotels Ready for AI Search
IHG is also preparing its hotels for the growing role of AI-powered search.
Over the next several months, the company will roll out a new AI-optimized hotel content platform. The platform will make it easier for hotels to upload rich and detailed information while improving how their properties are discovered.
The new system will support additional content formats, including floor plans, videos and updated imagery. These assets are designed to reflect the increasingly detailed ways travelers search for hotels and experiences.
As a result, hotels will be better positioned to showcase their unique attributes across IHG and third-party digital channels. They will also be able to improve how their properties are matched with travelers searching for specific experiences, amenities and preferences.
IHG Expands Its AI Travel Strategy
The addition of conversational search to IHG’s booking channels follows the recent launch of an IHG app in ChatGPT. Further technology developments are expected throughout the year.
Together, these initiatives form part of IHG’s broader AI strategy. The company aims to make it easier for travelers to discover, evaluate and engage with its hotels across digital channels.
Looking ahead, IHG is developing additional capabilities, including more personalized search experiences and agentic booking. These features could create new opportunities to deepen guest personalization and strengthen loyalty.
To support its AI initiatives, IHG is also working with technology partners and thought leaders in the sector. The goal is to continue transforming the guest experience as AI becomes an increasingly important part of travel discovery and booking.
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