Google Revamped Its Flights Product and 8 Other Digital Trends This Week

Throughout the week we post dozens of original stories, connecting the dots across the travel industry, and every weekend we sum it all up. This weekend roundup examines digital trends.

For all of our weekend roundups, go here.

>>Google made its claim to fame partly on the simplicity of its user interface. Its new interface for flights search is a return to its elegant design roots: Google Flights’ New Look Moves Away From Travel Inspiration

>>Companies ought to carry out adequate checks on the ability of borrowers to repay travel loans on time. Otherwise, a surprise disruption such as an Icelandic volcano or an economic downturn could prompt defaults: Travel Companies Start Lending Consumers Money to Book Trips

>>The success of this, and all brand partnerships, is dependent on a synergistic approach to luxury whether that be sleek and understated or bold and brash. We expect to see more cross-industry partnerships emerge as brands wrestle for the attention and trust of the new luxury consumer: Luxury Brands Cross Industry Lines for Loyalty Collaborations

>>Fashion has in many ways been steps ahead of travel when it comes to Web design, online engagement and marketing prowess — but there is still so far to go for luxury brands in both industries: What Travel Can Learn From Luxury Fashion’s Digital Trials

>>Events thrive on human interaction and connection. Going forward, we’re going to examine the ways in which technology can enhance this dynamic and how smart players across the industry are evolving to meet the needs of their attendees: Preparing for the Future — Meetings Innovation Report

>>It’s not surprising that the chief creative officer of Facebook thinks travel companies should get smarter about using — and ostensibly advertising on — Facebook products. But he also adds insight on why mobile is so crucial for travel companies to master and why virtual reality is less important: Video: Facebook Chief Creative Officer Thinks Virtual Reality Is a Low Priority

>>The future you’re promised is never the future you get. Google is touting artificial intelligence-powered translation capability as a transformative feature for its users, but it’s really just an impractical repackaging of existing technology: Google Earbuds With Real-Time Translation Aren’t Much More Than a Gimmick

>>Advertising on Facebook is an expanding strategic opportunity for travel brands. That’s why travel marketing-tech startup Sojern is nabbing Adphorus, a travel specialist ad tech company in Turkey, as a bridgehead for growth: Sojern Buys Ad-Tech Firm Adphorus to Better Compete on Facebook

>>In the California gold rush, businesses once sold pickaxes to prospectors. In today’s vacation rental gold rush, they’re selling management services to the property owners. The safest bets are always adjacent services: Hostmaker Raises $15 Million for Short-Term Rental Management: Travel Startup Funding This Week