How ChatGPT 5 Will Change the Way Clients Choose a Local Salon

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way people search, compare, and book services, and salons are no exception. With the upcoming release of ChatGPT 5, the way clients find and engage with local salons is about to evolve dramatically.

In this blog, we explain:

• What GPT 5 is
• Why it matters
• How salon owners can prepare now to remain visible, bookable, and competitive.

What Is GPT 5?

GPT 5 stands for Generative Pre-trained Transformer 5. It is the next major AI model from OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT.

This version builds on GPT 4’s capabilities by offering more advanced understanding, deeper reasoning, and greater accuracy. It is expected to deliver significant improvements in the following areas:

• Understanding context and nuance in human conversation
• Processing longer and more complex requests
• Providing accurate, relevant, and personalised responses
• Potentially handling images, video, and voice in addition to text
• Delivering more reliable outputs with fewer errors or hallucinations

In short, GPT 5 is expected to function as a highly capable, intelligent assistant that can help users make smarter decisions — including where to book their next salon visit.

When Will GPT 5 Be Released?

As of mid-2025, OpenAI has not confirmed an official release date. However, industry experts anticipate GPT 5 will launch in late 2025 or early 2026. It will likely be introduced first within the ChatGPT platform, particularly for paid users on the Plus or Enterprise plans. It may also be integrated into tools like Microsoft Copilot and other software solutions.

As adoption grows, more people will begin using AI assistants — not traditional search engines — to find their next haircut, colour appointment, or stylist.

How Will GPT 5 Change the Salon Booking Journey?

Here are five ways next-generation AI, including GPT 5, is expected to reshape how clients search for and select a local salon.

1. Conversational Search Will Replace Traditional Browsing

Instead of typing "best salon near me" into Google, clients will use natural, conversational language. For example:

• "Where can I get a balayage with Olaplex in East Grinstead this Friday?"
• "Who is the top stylist for thick, curly hair nearby?"

AI tools will interpret these questions, then recommend salons based on real-time data, online reviews, services, specialties, and availability.

What you need: A website and booking system that provides structured information to AI, including service details, team bios, brands and products used, and live appointment times.

2. Hyper-Personalised Recommendations Will Become the Norm

AI will remember each user’s preferences — such as hair type, favourite brands, budget, and even feedback from previous appointments — and personalise recommendations accordingly.

For example:
"You usually ask for vegan colour. This salon uses Quint:essential Vegan Colour and specialises in colour correction."

What you need: Clear positioning and messaging that define what makes your salon unique. Highlight your use of premium products, specialist skills, sustainability credentials, or luxury experiences.

3. Instant, Voice-Controlled Bookings

Clients will soon be able to speak to an assistant and say:
"Book me a cut and blow-dry on Thursday afternoon with someone experienced in fine hair."

The AI will check your salon’s availability in real time and book the appointment without the client needing to visit your website or call.

What you need: A booking system (such as The Salon App) that integrates with AI tools and shares live availability.

4. AI-Generated Side-by-Side Comparisons

Rather than visiting multiple websites, clients will be shown smart, AI-generated comparisons such as:

What you need: Consistent service names, accurate pricing, visible reviews, up-to-date team profiles, and real-time appointment information.

5. AI Will Educate Clients Before They Book

Clients may ask:
"What is the difference between balayage and ombré?"
"Why does this salon cost more than others?"

AI assistants will use content from your website to answer these questions. If your site explains services clearly and in client-friendly language, you will appear knowledgeable and trustworthy even before the first booking.

What you need: Helpful content such as FAQs, service breakdowns, and stylist profiles written in plain, accessible language.

What You Can Do Now

To ensure your salon thrives in an AI-driven world, take these steps to prepare.

Optimise Your Website for AI Discovery

• Use clear and accurate service descriptions
• Introduce your team with short bios and areas of expertise
• Highlight the professional products and treatments you use
• Include educational content that answers common client questions
• Ensure your online booking process is simple and user-friendly

Define and Showcase What Makes You Unique

Do not rely on generic messaging. Be specific about what you offer and why it matters. This may include your technical skills, sustainability focus, welcoming environment, or advanced training.

Use Technology That Supports AI Integration

Choose salon software and website platforms that allow AI tools to access your data securely. The Salon App is already designed with this in mind and offers built-in tools to help your business stay future-ready.

The online world is changing

GPT 5 and similar AI tools will transform the way clients find and choose local salons. Instead of scrolling through websites or comparing online listings, clients will simply ask their digital assistant who the best option is nearby.

The salons that prepare now by optimising their websites, using AI-friendly booking tools, and highlighting what makes them special will enjoy more visibility, more bookings, and stronger client loyalty.

If you would like help reviewing your current website, refining your service descriptions, or setting up AI-friendly tools like The Salon App, get in touch. We would love to support you.