Smart Hotels: Cool Ways Hotels are Optimizing the Guest Experience
From self-service check-in to instant messaging, technology is leading the way in the hospitality industry.
As travelers become more tech-savvy, hotels are adapting by introducing smart technologies that give guests a more customized stay.
The smart hotel trend can pin point its origins to hotel furniture like lamps and bed side tables equipped with outlets and USB ports. These days the average guests not only have three or more devices that require charging, they also want more connectivity and personalization.
While you can’t expect luggage carrying robots just yet, there are several smart hotel features making an impact.
Mobile Check In & Digital Keys
Hilton Honors now offers mobile key and pre-check in to guest. Guests can download the Hilton Honors app that not only lets them do self-check in, but also serves as a mobile key.
On the day of check in, guest receive a notification from Hilton indicating their key is available.
In a few clicks you can check in and chose your room without ever having to stop at the front desk. Hilton properties like Hampton Inn Plant City and Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Orlando both offer the digital key.
Text Messaging
Need a towel or forgot your tooth brush? Marriott now lets you text the front desk to request common items and services. All it takes is for the user to download the Marriott app.
In addition to mobile check-in, a digital key and one-touch requests you can also chat with a hotel associate before, during and after your stay. Have a question about housekeeping or need to request laundry services — simply send a message via the app.
Streaming Services
Making your stay more like home is the goal of Marriott properties. Rooms now feature popular television streaming services like Netflix and Hulu.
At the Fairfield Inn & Suites Tampa Riverview, guests can log into their personal accounts and pick up where they left off binge-watching their favorite show. When you check out your information is automatically deleted.