Airbnb's new filters make travelling easier for people with disabilities. These improved search filters are set to roll out with a slew of service changes, but this focus on accessibility seems to be the biggest amendment. These new features allow users to search for wheelchair accessible listing that can also include including step-free entry to rooms, entryways that are wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair, accessible-height bed and a bathtubs with a shower chair.
Airbnb's new filters follow the company's acquisition of London-based Accomabl, a startup aimed at helping people with disabilities find places to stay while travelling. Airbnb also worked closely with various groups to design these filter options. Airbnb has stated that it will closely monitor the new filters to ensure that listings are accurate and the filters are actually useful. The company hopes that user feedback will allow for expansions and refinement of these new filters.
Accessible Travel Filters
Airbnb's New Filters Will Make Finding Accessible Spaces a Lot Easier
Trend Themes
1. Accessible Travel - The trend of improved accessibility features in travel accommodations provides an opportunity for disruptive innovation in the travel industry.
2. Search Filters - The trend of enhanced search filters creates opportunities for disruptive innovation in the technology industry for companies looking to improve user experiences in finding accessible spaces.
3. Inclusive Design - The trend of inclusive design and collaboration with disability advocacy groups presents an opportunity for disruptive innovation in the design industry, creating more accessible spaces for everyone.
Industry Implications
1. Travel - The travel industry can leverage the trend of accessible travel filters to improve and expand their offerings for disabled travelers, attracting a larger customer base.
2. Technology - The technology industry can develop innovative search filters and algorithms that enhance the user experience in finding accessible spaces, disrupting the way people search for accommodations.
3. Design - The design industry can embrace inclusive design principles and collaborate with disability advocacy groups to create more accessible spaces, disrupting traditional design norms and benefiting a wider range of users.