technology
Google Introduces AI Mode Features for Local Stock Checks and Hotel Price Tracking
Google has announced updates to its AI Mode that enable users to check product availability at nearby stores and track prices for specific hotels. The features aim to assist with summer travel planning. These enhancements build on existing tools in Google Search.
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Google announced on April 17, 2026, that it is adding new capabilities to its AI Mode to support users in finding products and monitoring travel costs. The updates include an agentic AI function that contacts local stores to verify stock for specific items described by users.
This stock-checking feature, initially launched in Google Search in November 2025, is now expanding to AI Mode in the United States over the coming weeks.
Users can provide descriptions such as needing clip-on polarized sunglasses that fit over prescription glasses, and the AI will call stores and report back with details.
Google also introduced the ability to track prices for individual hotels directly in Search.
On desktop, users search for a hotel by name and toggle price tracking; on mobile, the option appears under the Prices tab. Once activated, users receive email alerts for price changes during selected dates, extending from existing city-level tracking.
Search Data Google reported that top trending summer 2026 destinations on Google Flights include St.
Maarten, Stockholm, Kansas City, Missouri, and Sarasota, Florida. Search interest in terms like “AI travel assistant” and “AI concierge” increased by 350% over the past year. Queries for “how to use AI to find flight deals” trended in the past month, and interest in “AI flight booking” rose by 315%.
