Back in May, Airbnb (ABNB) -) CEO Brian Chesky asked customers to tell him what kinds of changes they’d like to see to the service in the 2023 Fall Update. Now, the service’s updates have rolled out and answered some of the customers’ most frequent asks.
Two filters have been added to Airbnb’s system – one is brand new and allows guests to search for a king-size bed. The app has also restored the use of its pet-friendly search feature, which was retired in 2021. But thanks to high customer demand, the option to bring your furry friend is back on the menu.
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A few customers asked for property verification, and Airbnb’s new update is keen to prevent fraudulent listings, too. “We firmly believe guests shouldn’t have to worry about whether a listing is fake or isn’t located where it says it is,” the company said in the update.
Homes posted to the site will be cross-checked with property data plus live photos and video. If it’s determined that the host has correctly represented the home, the listing will sport a verified icon. Listings in the U.S., Canada, U.K., France, and Australia will start using a new verification system in early 2024.
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Among the responses to Chesky’s call for feedback are repeated customer complaints about the service’s cleaning fees. Last year, the company tested and introduced a feature that presents the full price of booking (before taxes), and Chesky was all about promoting that new feature in response to complaints.
Meanwhile, multiple responders asked the CEO to adjust policies that ban sex workers from using the service entirely (even if they’re traveling for leisure or no longer working in the field.) Those requests received no CEO response.
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