"Social Connections completely transforms the search experience on Airbnb," the startup says. "We've added a new filter, allowing you to quickly and easily find connections you have in any city around the world."
Social Connections is a new filter that returns places where there is a link between the user and the host through a Facebook connection. The idea is to give users insight and information about how they are connected to hosts and other travelers.
Users can opt into Social Connections to more easily find places to rent from hosts who are direct Facebook friends, hosts who are friends of friends or hosts who share the same alma mater as they do. Airbnb users can also get a quick glimpse at whether a Facebook friend has reviewed a host, as well as view the places that Airbnb employees have stayed at or reviewed.
"With over 1.5 millions nights booked through Airbnb so far, chances are someone you know has already used Airbnb," the company says.