New Delhi, May 13: Online travel platform ixigo has unveiled a new AI-based version of its app. The company envisions a future where trip planning will not just involve clicking on a screen but engaging with a smart AI travel companion. This innovative platform was introduced at ixigo’s flagship tech event, ‘ixigo Next.’
Rajneesh Kumar, co-founder and Group Co-CEO of ixigo, elaborated on the app in an interview with a news agency. He explained that the new app features a multimodal AI assistant named ‘Tara,’ designed to assist travelers in finding trips, planning itineraries, and managing their journeys.
Kumar noted that users will now rely less on traditional ticket booking methods and can fulfill their travel needs through simple conversations.
“The new ixigo app has been developed as an AI-native platform from the ground up,” Kumar stated. He emphasized that the company did not merely add AI features to the app but rebuilt the entire platform around AI.
He believes that the future of the travel industry will be driven by AI-based agents capable of understanding user needs, providing self-help, and offering continuous support before, during, and after travel.
Users can communicate with Tara in English, Hindi, and Hinglish. This feature is available through voice, text, and tap inputs, with plans to add support for other Indian languages soon.
Kumar clarified that unlike typical chatbots, Tara is not just an additional API-based feature; it is an integral part of the app’s core experience.
He pointed out that many people view AI as merely an extra feature, but true change requires building the entire system around AI from the start. Kumar emphasized ixigo’s commitment to understanding and solving user problems, developing technology based on the challenges travelers face.
Regarding the impact of AI on jobs, Kumar acknowledged the common fear that new technologies might eliminate jobs. However, he argued that technology automates repetitive or less engaging tasks. If a technology creates more jobs than it displaces, its overall impact is positive. He believes AI will also generate new types of jobs and opportunities.
In response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for people to postpone international travel for a year, Kumar stated that decisions should consider the current needs of the country. “I trust that the Prime Minister made this appeal after careful consideration. Therefore, we should respect and adhere to it,” he added.
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My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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