Expedia Group is redefining how travel businesses operate in the age of artificial intelligence. At its EXPLORE Connect B2B event in Singapore, the company introduced a next-generation suite of AI and machine learning-powered tools designed to help partners boost speed, scale, and personalisation across their operations, all while staying ahead in an increasingly competitive digital world.
Among the highlights were Smart Trip AI™, a cutting-edge conversational trip planning tool that delivers personalised hotel and activity inspiration, and the Lodging Sponsored Listings API, an advertising solution currently in pilot phase that lets partners unlock new monetisation opportunities.
“As the leader in B2B travel, our goal is to be the one stop shop for our partners by giving them the smartest, most reliable and scalable tools in the industry. From AI powered trip planning to new merchandising and advertising solutions, we help partners grow with confidence, deliver exceptional experiences and stay competitive in a fast-changing travel landscape.” – Alfonso Paredes, President of Expedia Group B2B
With more than 350 AI models already woven into its marketplace, Expedia Group is showing what is possible when machine learning meets travel intelligence. By leveraging vast first-party data, the company aims to empower partners to make sharper decisions, engage customers more effectively, and drive stronger conversions.
Smart Trip AI™: curated planning at scale
Personalisation has never been this powerful or in demand as it is today. Smart Trip AI™ combines the company’s deep travel expertise with partner loyalty programs to deliver real-time, tailored trip recommendations, turning often complex planning processes into a seamless journey of discovery which helps travellers effortlessly compare, select, and book. In an era where consumers expect instant answers and personalised content, this innovation sets a new benchmark for B2B travel intelligence.
Merchandising API: smarter campaigns, better deals
Set to launch in 2026, Expedia Group’s new Merchandising API uses machine learning algorithms to serve smarter data-driven promotions. With 58% of travellers showing greater price sensitivity this year, this API helps partners deliver timely and high-impact campaigns that resonate with budget-conscious travellers, while also improving engagement and conversion.
Lodging sponsored listings API: turning traffic into revenue
Currently in pilot phase, the Lodging Sponsored Listings API gives B2B partners the ability to monetise digital traffic by featuring relevant sponsored lodging listings directly on their own platforms. It’s a win-win where travellers see more relevant property suggestions, while lodging advertisers gain access to new, high-intent audiences through trusted B2B channels.
“Through this new suite of tools, we’re enabling seamless, personalized experiences that turn inspiration into action and traffic into value. This is about empowering our partners to grow with speed, intelligence, and impact in a rapidly evolving travel landscape.” – Karen Bolda, Chief Product and Technology Officer, B2B
Typeahead API: from inspiration to booking
Speed matters and the Typeahead API proves it. By suggesting destinations and accommodations as users type, Expedia helps travellers glide from inspiration to booking. The results speak for themselves with Tripbtoz, an online travel agency in Seoul, enjoying a 20% jump in search-to-book conversions after integrating the feature. This is the kind of incremental efficiency that can deliver exponential business results.
