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Airbnb Launches Apple Watch App

The Airbnb messaging feature lets hosts and guests keep in touch before, during, and after a stay—from their wrist.

By Stephanie Mlot
September 3, 2015
Weird Places You Can Stay on Air BnB

Want to chat with an Airbnb host before leaving for vacation? There's an Apple Watch app for that.

Connected Traveler In an effort to simplify communication and trip management, the accommodation site today launched its service on Cupertino's high-tech wearable.

Most notable is the Airbnb messaging feature, which is frequently used by hosts and guests to keep in touch before, during, and after a stay.

"Our hosts want to deliver personal hospitality to every guest, and messaging through Airbnb for Apple Watch app is one of the first and fastest ways they can create a long-lasting connection," Alex Schleifer, head of design, said in a statement.

Without having to check email or search for a smartphone, hosts can now receive booking requests—complete with traveler's name and photo, dates, and personal message—directly on their wrist. In just a few taps, they can decide whether or not to accept the proposal, send messages, or create pre-recorded responses.

Travelers, meanwhile, can monitor conversations and ask questions without missing the sights. The app also works with Airbnb's current Passbook integration on Apple Watch.

"Airbnb is about more than just a place to lay your head, it is about providing a great experience during your whole trip, and the Apple Watch is the perfect way for Airbnb to stay with you wherever you are," Schleifer said.

Last summer, the hospitality company launched a major redesign of its website and mobile apps, offering a cleaner look with larger images and a consistent design across platforms. Alongside the new customized Discover section on the homepage, Airbnb also unveiled a new logo.

Less than a year later, it introduced new applications for Android and iOS tablets, showcasing more than one million listings in a glossy magazine-like setting. Users can find maps with listing details, a Discover page with curated wishlists, a message system with dual-pane view, and revamped navigation setup.

For more, see 8 Crazy But Amazing Airbnb Rentals You Should Book Now in the slideshow above.

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About Stephanie Mlot

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Stephanie Mlot

B.A. in Journalism & Public Relations with minor in Communications Media from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP)

Reporter at The Frederick News-Post (2008-2012)

Reporter for PCMag and Geek.com (RIP) (2012-present)

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