Hotel apps ready for Apple Watch launch, the list so far
With the Apple Watch available to preorder April 10 and available to purchase April 24, the accommodation industry has already promised a range of new apps. accomnews compiled a list of hotel apps currently available to download that are designed for use on the new device.
These apps tend to focus on simplifying the check-in process and making life easier for guests but they also point to some changing trends in the industry.
Starwood’s Apple Watch app replaces traditional hotel room keys for the wearer. Company spokesperson Maire Griffin told accomnews: “Starwood is committed to marrying high-tech and high-touch, which means exploring and testing new ways to personalise the hotel experience, and we’re excited to be one of the first apps for Apple Watch when it becomes available April 24.
“The Starwood Preferred Guest App for Apple Watch is designed to respond to the in-stay needs of our guests from mobile check in, to opening their guest room door, to providing information like the hotel address, room number, confirmation numbers, directions and Starwood Preferred Guest account information.”
Accor’s Apple Watch app provides the wearer with check-in, bookings and hotel services information. Director of the company’s “mobile first” program Romain Roulleau said: “By launching this Accorhotels application for Apple Watch, Accor is establishing itself as an audacious digital hospitality player.
“This policy is part of the group’s digital plan, which aims to accompany the changeover to new mobile practices. Accor is thus fully embracing the era of connected wearables and adopting an ongoing improvement approach to this robust market trend so it can provide guests with a value-added service before, during and after their stay.”
InterContinental Hotel Group’s Apple Watch app provides the wearer with on-demand translations. Senior vice president for digital and voice channels at InterContinental Hotel Group said: “At IHG we know that for today’s consumer, technology is fundamental to driving superior experiences across the entire guest journey.
“We are committed to helping travellers make the most of their experience, wherever they are in the world, be it through a personal computer, mobile device or wearable technology. We’re excited to have a version of our IHG Translator App ready for Apple Watch.”
