Yelp’s New AI Assistant Helps Consumers Find Relevant Service Providers

Crowdsourced reviews and recommendation platform Yelp.Inc has introduced an AI-powered chatbot to assist consumers in connecting with relevant businesses for various tasks. The chatbot leverages OpenAI’s large language models (LLMs) and its own data to understand user queries and connect them to expert professionals.

Initially available on Yelp’s iOS app, the company plans to roll out the chatbot on Android later this year. 

Instead of using traditional search boxes, users can submit their queries directly into the chat interface. The bot then follows up, gathers additional information along with the user's zip code to create a project, and facilitates communication between users and professionals. The users can also avail themselves of the app’s quick reply feature during a conversation.

"It contextually understands your project or problem, engages in a professional-like dialogue with follow up questions, and then matches you with businesses that are qualified to help with your project," reads a company blog.

It also mentions that due to its precise matching capabilities, Yelp Assistant can deliver relevant and detailed leads to businesses.

In a statement, Craig Saldanha, Yelp’s Chief Product Officer said, “AI enables us to transform the way people discover and connect with local businesses. Yelp Assistant is a game-changer for hiring service providers, alleviating friction for consumers in finding the right pro for their needs while providing pros with the information they need to evaluate and win jobs.”

In addition to making the bot available to customers, Yelp is also launching an API for other websites to include an AI-powered bot for business discovery. Users can access suggestions related to businesses through the API, including ratings, price details, reviews, and photos.