OpenAI acquires AI travel startup Odessia founded by Sonder creator

OpenAI has acquired Odessia, an AI travel agent startup created by Francis Davidson, according to Davidson's announcement reported by TechCrunch. Davidson is now working for OpenAI to help shape the future of travel technology.

Odessia, which launched its AI travel agent about five months ago, had raised $6 million in a pre-seed funding round led by Sequoia. The tool helped early users plan millions of dollars in travel before it was shut down.

OpenAI has not publicly confirmed the acquisition or disclosed its plans for travel-related products, although it counts companies like Bookings.com, Expedia, and KAYAK among its partners. Travel is a key area for AI personal assistants, as noted when OpenAI launched its ChatGPT agent in mid-2025.

Francis Davidson is a recognized figure in travel tech, having founded Sonder, a startup focused on upscale apartment rentals worldwide. Sonder faced financial difficulties, filed for bankruptcy, and its brand was sold in 2026 to TravelAI, which now operates a curated travel rental guide.

The acquisition appears to be an acqui-hire, with OpenAI gaining Davidson's expertise in AI-driven travel solutions as it explores expanding its offerings in this sector.