KLM has launched a new voice-activated artificial intelligence bot for Google Home devices. The Blue Bot (BB) service will offer passengers advice on what to pack for their trip based on the duration of their journey and the local weather.
Pieter Groeneveld, senior vice president digital Air France-KLM says of the new service:
“KLM is well known for its personal approach. KLM’s new service on Google Home with BB is the next step in its innovative digital strategy and the first step on voice, offering personalised service through Google Home with the help of artificial intelligence. KLM’s interactive pack assistant shows the added value offered by KLM throughout the entire customer journey.”
BB was first launched in September, offering KLM customers flight booking on Messenger in natural language. The BB service will also work on other devices that support Google Assistant.
The bot draws on artificial intelligence as well as KLM service representatives and external technology to improve her results for greater personalisation. KLM expects to add more BB services through different social media channels in time.
Airlines find their voice
Airlines are taking to voice-assistants and AI as part of a full complement of digital customer touchpoints.
Air Canada has introduced new Alexa skills which offer customers travel information like document requirements, ticket policies and TSA pre-check availability.
American Airlines also introduced Alexa skills, developed by in-flight entertainment company Spafax, which gives passengers a list of films and programs which will be available in-flight, as well details on actors and film ratings. The service also offers destination inspiration based on a new IFE and online series produced by Spafax and Business Traveller magazine.
In the travel search space, Skyscanner was the first travel search company to introduce Alexa skills which can offer flight pricing based on queries. Kayak followed with similar services including commands to search flights, hotels and car rentals, or even offer travel inspiration based on budget.