Breaking news

WhatsApp Launches New AI Tools for Businesses

by THEFUTURE.TEAM
June 7, 2024

Meta’s WhatsApp app has announced the launch of AI tools to help businesses. 

KEY FACTS 

  • Meta launches its first targeted ad program for businesses on WhatsApp. 
  • CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the new tools in a video that was shown during a conference in Brazil.
  • The innovation marks a change for WhatsApp, the encrypted messaging service that excels in the privacy of communication between users and avoids the use of targeted advertising tools that are part of other Meta products such as Facebook and Instagram.
  • During the conference, Meta also unveiled a new AI chatbot that answers business inquiries directly in chat. The chatbot will help users with common queries, such as finding catalogues or consulting about opening hours.
  • With the innovation, Meta aims to monetize its popular chat service. 
  • The social network has been rolling out in-app commerce and payment features for several years, including “business messaging” options that companies can use to serve customers and send promotional materials to people who have shared their phone numbers with them.
  • New AI tools will analyze behaviour on Facebook and Instagram to send targeted messages to those users who would receive them, provided customers use the same phone number on their accounts.

THE BIG NUMBER

Approximately $22 billion. This is the amount for which the WhatsApp app was acquired by Meta in 2014. Globally, the app has over 2 billion users and is Meta’s largest app in that regard. However, despite the service’s popularity, WhatsApp has so far contributed only a small fraction of Meta’s total revenue.

Airbnb Unveils Reserve Now, Pay Later Option For U.S. Guests

by THEFUTURE.TEAM
August 15, 2025

Introduction

Airbnb has introduced an innovative payment solution designed to enhance user flexibility for U.S. travellers. The new “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature enables users to secure a booking without an upfront payment, offering a streamlined cancellation process should plans change.

Flexible Payment Terms

This new option applies to listings that feature either flexible or moderate cancellation policies. Under a flexible policy, guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before check-in, while a moderate policy offers no-fee cancellations until five days prior to arrival.

Payment Timing and Reminders

Regardless of the cancellation window, guests are obligated to complete the full payment before the expiration of the free cancellation period. Airbnb ensures a smooth experience by sending timely payment reminders to avoid any last-minute issues.

Evolution of Airbnb’s Payment Solutions

This initiative builds on Airbnb’s previous forays into flexible payment structures. In 2018, the company offered a partial upfront payment model, and more recently, a collaboration with Klarna enabled guests to pay in four installments over six weeks. Such strategic advancements demonstrate Airbnb’s commitment to adapting and refining its payment solutions to meet evolving consumer demands.

Consumer Insight Driving Innovation

Airbnb’s decision to launch the “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature reflects robust consumer demand, with recent surveys indicating that 55% of respondents prefer flexible payment options. Additionally, 42% noted missed opportunities due to payment complexities when coordinating with travel companions, underlining the need for simplified financial arrangements.

Conclusion

By enhancing payment flexibility, Airbnb not only broadens its appeal but also addresses critical customer pain points, reinforcing its position as a leader in the evolving travel market. This initiative exemplifies how strategic innovation can drive customer satisfaction in an increasingly competitive landscape.

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