The Rise of Smart Technology In Hotels

Smart Technology In Today's World

It's 2024, and the likes of AI has reached an evolutionary pattern where it's near impossible to identify what's produced artificially, and what's made by human creativity.

It's a somewhat scary thought, though smart technology has had its fair share of utility.

Efficiency has increased across the board with the use of smart tech, and it's clear with hospitality utilising a variety of equipment meant to enhance customer service, maintenance, and other operations in hotels, aparthotels, and other tourist accommodations. 

In this post, we research the ways that smart technology in hospitality has played a role in its evolution.

Hospitality And Its Use Of Smart Tech

Innovative technology in today's age is surprisingly more than just AI (though it plays a huge part). Hotel room technology for example provides numerous benefits, from personalized experiences for guests to increased safety and convenience for staff. 

What makes technology "smart"?

"Smart" technology communicates with other technologies online, and its ability to automate, adapt and remotely access and operate from anywhere increases its functionality (according to Williams - a concept used widely among tourist accommodations. 

They use features like data analysis, machine learning and AI to add things like automation, personalisation, and ease of use. They're essentially gadgets with brains! 

The rise of "smart hotels" 

Hoteliers have been leveraging technology, with an increase of "smart" hotels worldwide. Smart hotels have been referred to as hotels that enhance guest experience with technology, as well as operations.

As evolution continues and hotels, aparthotels, and other accommodations improve tech that is specific to hospitality, cases continue to increase where hotels use this type of technology.

Smart hotels enhance the guest experience with technology and utilize technology to make operations more efficient. Mobile check-in or physical hardware like kiosks can empower guests to complete check-in on their own, for example, making it a seamless experience for visitors. 

What Have Hotels Been Using For Smart Tech? 

Countless features of smart technology have been used extensively by different hotels, below are the most common ones:

Smart security controls

Many hotels are now adopting keyless entry systems that allow guests to access their rooms using their smartphones or keycards. This not only provides added convenience but also enhances security.

Example: Goki used their smart lock technology for The Statesman Hotel in Australia, providing their business with guest-focused safety features that are both seamless and efficient for visitors. 

Energy efficiency

Hotels are increasingly implementing smart energy management systems to optimize energy usage throughout their properties. From automated lighting and HVAC controls to sensors that detect occupancy, these systems help hotels reduce their environmental footprint while cutting down on utility costs. 

Example: Mandarin Hotel in Chile fostered an incredible form of sustainable hotel practice in which they used Enel X to create a rooftop garden to establish biodiversity, as well as provide fresh air in the middle of the city.

Personalized guest experiences

Thanks to advanced data analytics and guest experience management platforms, hotels can now offer personalized services tailored to each guest's preferences. From recommending nearby attractions to providing customized room amenities, smart technology enables hotels to create memorable and bespoke experiences for their guests. 

Example: Loyalty programs in the hospitality industry are often great cases for personalisation, and World of Hyatt is a good example of this.

Smart TVs

Smart TVs equipped with streaming services and interactive features provide guests with access to a wide range of entertainment options, allowing them to enjoy personalized content during their stay.

Example: CitySuites have their own smart TVs set in most of their apartments, allowing guests to filter through a variety of streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime and more. 

Virtual concierge services

Virtual concierge services use artificial intelligence (AI) and chatbots to provide guests with information about hotel amenities, local attractions, dining recommendations, and more, offering personalized assistance 24/7.

Example: STAY, the first-place hotel app vendor in 2023's HotelTechAwards, offers digital concierge functionality using their app. 

Smart mirrors

Smart mirrors equipped with touchscreen displays offer guests various functionalities, such as displaying weather updates, providing skincare tips, offering virtual fitness classes, and even allowing guests to shop for products.

Example: Marriott has utilised smart mirrors in the past, which creates a "level of luxury and pampering for guests" - according to Essential Install.

What Else Can We Expect?

Smart technology is revolutionizing the hotel industry in more ways than one, offering guests unprecedented convenience, comfort, and personalization. As hotels continue to embrace these innovations, the future of hospitality looks brighter than ever, promising unforgettable stays that are as smart as they are luxurious.

Our Thoughts: Will Smart Technology Flourish? 

Absolutely. We believe that smart technology will not only flourish, but will slowly - and progressively - become the norm in most hotel chains, exclusive aparthotels, and the like. 

It's easy to see why. Everyone has become accustomed to digital fluidity, with almost everyone owning smartphones that can order a product at the press of a button, as well as other tech that enhances their livelihood. It's easy to see why hotels want to incorporate smart functionality to make lives better for guests! 

Want a place to stay in the city where you can leave worries behind? Fitted with smart TVs, 24/7 reception, and an on-site cafe and restaurant, CitySuites is your hub to stay for any type of stay; short, weekends or long-term.