IHG Hotels & Resorts, in collaboration with Google Cloud, is set to revolutionise the travel planning experience with the introduction of a new feature powered by artificial intelligence (AI). The partnership aims to enhance guest experiences within the IHG One Rewards mobile app, offering personalised travel recommendations to users.

With the integration of Google Cloud's technologies, IHG will unveil a generative AI-powered travel planning capability, allowing guests to easily plan their next vacation directly through the IHG One Rewards mobile app. This suite of new features is scheduled to launch in the second half of 2024, promising a more dynamic digital guest experience.

Jolie Fleming, Chief Product & Technology Officer at IHG Hotels & Resorts, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasising how the customised travel planner will utilise GenAI to help users discover destinations among IHG's extensive portfolio of over 6,000 hotels across 19 brands in more than 100 countries. The IHG One Rewards mobile app will evolve into a comprehensive mobile travel companion, enabling guests to build full itineraries and book hotels with ease.

The new IHG Travel Planner will offer guests personalised recommendations and ideas for their travel needs, from specific dining options near IHG properties to pet-friendly accommodations. Guests will also have access to information about local events and attractions, enhancing their overall travel experience.

Investments in the IHG One Rewards mobile app and technology to support IHG's loyalty program are integral to IHG's strategy to foster customer loyalty and engagement. Leveraging Google Cloud's AI platform, Vertex AI, and Gemini models, IHG aims to deploy features loved by guests swiftly and efficiently.

Thomas Kurian, CEO at Google Cloud, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating that IHG's implementation of generative AI reflects a commitment to reimagining guest experiences in the hospitality industry. The collaboration combines Google's technical expertise with IHG's dedication to service, setting new standards for digital guest interactions.

Google Cloud's comprehensive approach to cybersecurity, data governance, and privacy aligns with IHG's priorities, ensuring that guest data remains secure and compliant with industry standards. Moreover, IHG benefits from Google Cloud's responsible and ethical approach to AI, enabling direct review and optimization of AI models for enhanced performance.

The introduction of the IHG Travel Planner marks another milestone in IHG's journey to enhance guest experiences through innovative technology solutions. As travellers seek more personalised and seamless travel experiences, IHG remains committed to delivering exceptional hospitality through cutting-edge digital solutions.

To explore IHG Hotels & Resorts' global brands or book your next stay, download the IHG One Rewards App today.

About Google Cloud:

Google Cloud offers a comprehensive suite of AI, infrastructure, developer, data, security, and collaboration tools, designed to empower organisations for today and tomorrow's challenges. With customers in over 200 countries and territories, Google Cloud is a trusted technology partner for businesses worldwide.

About IHG:

IHG Hotels & Resorts is a global hospitality company dedicated to providing True Hospitality for Good. With 19 hotel brands and IHG One Rewards, one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programs, IHG operates over 6,300 hotels in more than 100 countries, with a robust development pipeline of over 2,000 properties.