According to Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with the matter, and further confirmed by TechCrunch, Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky is planning to support the establishment of a new AI lab. This indicates that he is shifting from an external player in the AI field to a more direct implementer.

Direction or focus on interaction and design

The specific research focus of this AI lab has not yet been disclosed. Bloomberg noted that the work may revolve around user interaction and product design, areas that Chesky has consistently emphasized within Airbnb in recent years.

Airbnb has previously used AI programming tools internally, but has been relatively cautious about collaborating on large language models. Chesky stated last year that the company was not in a hurry to partner with any particular LLM vendor because existing products had not yet fully met expectations.

Maintaining long-term contact with OpenAI

Chesky has a close relationship with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. The two first connected in 2006 through Y Combinator, the incubator that also supported Airbnb at the time.

After OpenAI's rapid expansion, Chesky regularly communicated with Altman to discuss management issues of high-growth technology companies. During the controversy surrounding OpenAI's board's attempt to remove Altman, Chesky was also considered one of those who supported Altman's return.

He will continue to serve as CEO of Airbnb.

Sources say Chesky will not personally oversee the day-to-day operations of the new lab, but will continue as Airbnb CEO. At this stage, the lab's organizational structure, leadership, and specific product plans have not been disclosed.

Representatives from both Airbnb and Chesky declined to comment. Based on the information disclosed, this project appears to be a cutting-edge technology development initiative by Chesky outside its core business, and its future focus will depend on its product positioning and team building progress.