Google Duplex, the Google Assistant-powered service, can now be used to book movie tickets on the web. Initially teased during I/O 2019, the service combines the use of Google Assistant and the Duplex AI phone tool with online ticketing operations across 70 exhibitors and services in the UK and US.
At launch, users get to choose from more than 70 cinemas and ticketing services which include the likes of AMC, Odeon, Movietickets.com, Fandango, and MJR Theatres.
“Ask the Assistant something like, ‘Hey Google, showtimes for [movie] in Phoenix this weekend. Or, you can do a search for movie times from the Google app on Android,” Google product manager Dan Ritter explained the service in a blog post.
The software then guides you through the ticket purchase process, with another key factor being payment information which can be saved in the Chrome web browser.
Users can search or ask Google Assistant to find out movie listings in their vicinity, and once they’ve found what they’re looking for, simply tap the ‘Buy Tickets’ button to start the process. You can then pick your seats, and enter the payment information if stored in the Chrome web browser. The whole idea behind Duplex is to make the process of booking movie tickets, seats, then completing the purchase more efficient and effortless.
Overall, it appears to be a welcome feature given how clunky the digital marketplace can be, leaving would-be movie ticket buyers often frustrated. The new system will certainly help bridge the gap between search movie tickets online to the final purchase decision.
