In a significant move towards leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance user experience, Yelp has announced the launch of an AI-powered chatbot designed specifically for consumers. This innovative feature allows users to connect with relevant businesses for their tasks in a more intuitive and conversational manner.
How the Chatbot Works
The new AI assistant is available on Yelp’s iOS app under the ‘Projects’ tab, with plans to expand to Android later this year. The chatbot utilizes OpenAI’s large language models (LLMs) in conjunction with Yelp’s own data to ask users about their problems and connect them with relevant professionals for the job.
Unlike traditional search boxes that require users to specify their requirements, the chatbot allows users to describe their issues directly into the chat interface. This is followed by a series of follow-up questions from the bot to gather more information, including the user’s zip code, to create a project.
Once the chatbot has sent relevant professionals the project details, users can see messages from them and respond accordingly using custom replies or Yelp’s quick reply feature.
Project Ideas Section
In addition to the AI-powered chatbot, Yelp is also introducing a new ‘Project Ideas’ section aimed at nudging users to start new projects that may involve searching for services on Yelp. Currently, some of the suggested project ideas include maintaining one’s home, installing new lighting, and upgrading outdoor spaces.
Later in the summer, this feature will become more personalized with recommendations and checklists tailored to each user’s specific needs and preferences.
Benefits of AI-Powered Chatbot
According to Craig Saldanha, Yelp’s chief product officer, "AI enables us to transform the way people discover and connect with local businesses."
The new chatbot is a game-changer for hiring service providers, alleviating friction for consumers in finding the right professional for their needs while providing pros with the information they need to evaluate and win jobs.
Future Plans
While Yelp has not announced any immediate plans to leverage AI chatbot experience for restaurant discovery, it is exploring the possibility of using natural language search more frequently on its platform in the future, including searching for restaurants and services.
"We’re working to understand how this type of natural language search could be used more frequently on our platform in the future to evaluate how best to meet this consumer need," said Akhil Kuduvalli Ramesh, SVP of product at Yelp.
Fusion API
In addition to making the chatbot available for consumers, Yelp is also launching a Fusion API that allows other sites to include an AI-powered bot for business discovery. Users visiting third-party websites can ask the chatbot for suggestions like "A vegan brunch place that is open this Saturday at 9 a.m." or "Suggest a good workout studio in Miami with a swimming pool."
The chatbot will then provide relevant results based on the user’s search query, making it easier for users to find what they’re looking for.
Benefits of Fusion API
By allowing third-party websites to integrate Yelp’s AI-powered chatbot, Fusion API provides several benefits:
- Improved User Experience: Users can now interact with businesses in a more conversational and intuitive manner.
- Increased Engagement: By providing users with relevant results based on their search queries, Fusion API can increase user engagement and improve the overall experience.
- Enhanced Business Visibility: Businesses listed on Yelp can benefit from increased visibility through the chatbot’s recommendations.
Future Developments
As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative features and integrations from Yelp in the future. The company is committed to using AI to enhance user experience and provide users with more personalized and relevant results.
In conclusion, Yelp’s new AI-powered chatbot is a significant step towards revolutionizing the way users interact with local businesses. By providing a conversational interface that allows users to describe their problems directly into the chat interface, Yelp has made it easier for users to find what they’re looking for.
As the company continues to explore new ways to leverage AI technology, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the future.
What’s Next
To stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates from Yelp, be sure to follow their blog and social media channels. With its commitment to innovation and user experience, Yelp is shaping the future of local business discovery.
By integrating AI-powered chatbots into its platform, Yelp has taken a significant step towards revolutionizing the way users interact with businesses. As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative features and integrations from Yelp in the future.
Conclusion
Yelp’s new AI-powered chatbot is a game-changer for hiring service providers and alleviates friction for consumers in finding the right professional for their needs. With its conversational interface and personalized recommendations, users can now interact with businesses in a more intuitive and engaging manner.
As Yelp continues to explore new ways to leverage AI technology, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the future. By staying up-to-date with the latest news and updates from Yelp, you can be among the first to experience the benefits of its innovative features.
