The way we use Yelp is about to change significantly. The popular local business directory has unveiled its most extensive artificial intelligence upgrade yet, introducing 35 new features and enhancements as part of a major fall 2025 product release. This comprehensive update positions Yelp at the forefront of using AI to connect users with local businesses in increasingly intuitive ways.
At the heart of this transformation is the expansion of Yelp’s signature chatbot assistant. Previously deployed primarily for home repair queries, Yelp Assistant now boasts broader capabilities – answering natural-language questions about restaurants and retailers through voice or text prompts. This development represents a significant step forward in conversational AI for local business discovery.
The platform is also introducing specialized AI tools designed specifically for restaurants and small businesses. Yelp Host and Yelp Receptionist offer AI-powered assistance for handling customer calls, potentially reducing wait times and improving service efficiency for local establishments.
For restaurant-goers, a particularly exciting addition is Menu Vision. This innovative tool combines artificial intelligence with augmented reality, allowing users to point their smartphone cameras at physical menus and instantly see photos, review highlights, and links to popular dishes. It essentially brings digital menu information into the real-world dining environment.
Yelp’s commitment to AI extends beyond dining. The company is rolling out Car Genius, a specialized hotline for automotive services, following its acquisition of RepairPal. This service aims to streamline the process of booking auto-repair appointments, leveraging AI to make vehicle maintenance more convenient.
This isn’t the first foray into AI for Yelp. Earlier this year, the platform began offering AI-generated video summaries of business reviews, providing users with even faster access to key insights. The company has been steadily incorporating artificial intelligence into its directory and review services, demonstrating a consistent focus on innovation.
In a video previewing these changes, Yelp’s Chief Product Officer Craig Saldanha emphasized the significance of this release: “Today marks a major milestone for Yelp with our biggest AI release yet that will change how you use Yelp to discover and connect with great local businesses.”
As Yelp continues to integrate artificial intelligence deeply into its platform, users can expect increasingly intuitive interactions with local businesses – from finding restaurants to scheduling services. This comprehensive overhaul positions Yelp as a leader in the growing field of AI-powered local business discovery, potentially reshaping how we interact with businesses in our communities
