Introduction
The hospitality world is shifting fast, and travelers are at the heart of it, expecting everything to be quick, easy, and on their phones. Hotels that want to keep up—and rake in more revenue—need to lean into technology that makes guests feel valued and operations run like a dream. That’s where hotel apps trends come in, reshaping how hotels connect with travelers and deliver unforgettable stays.
In this guide, we’re diving into 10 hotel apps trends that are flipping the guest experience on its head while boosting the bottom line. From check-ins that take seconds to virtual tours that sell rooms before guests even book, these ideas are practical, proven, and ready to roll. I’ve packed in real-world examples, tips from my own travels, and insights inspired by places like Emersion Wellness, who know a thing or two about making guests happy and hotels profitable. Let’s get stuck in.
Critical Takeaways
- Mobile tech is the backbone of modern hospitality, with guests craving seamless, phone-first experiences.
- Embracing hotel apps trends can level up guest satisfaction, streamline hotel operations, and drive serious revenue.
- Standout innovations include mobile check-in, keyless entry, self-service kiosks, digital payments, loyalty integration, tailored offers, concierge apps, voice controls, chatbots, and VR/AR experiences.
1. Mobile Check-In and Check-Out: No More Front Desk Faff
Why It Matters
Remember rocking up to a hotel after a long flight, only to find a queue snaking out the door? It’s the worst. Mobile check-in and check-out are hotel apps trends that let guests skip the desk drama, saving time and sanity. For hotels, it’s a win too—staff can focus on making guests feel special instead of shuffling paperwork.
What’s the Payoff?
- Happier Guests: Nobody likes waiting. Checking in or out via a phone feels like a VIP pass. A study I read showed 7 out of 10 travelers rate their stay higher when they can dodge the desk.
- Smoother Operations: Less time on admin means more time for staff to sort room requests or recommend a cracking local cafe.
- More Cash: Apps can nudge guests to splurge on extras during check-in—think room upgrades or a cheeky spa session—boosting revenue without breaking a sweat.
Real Talk: Hilton’s Doing It Right
I stayed at a Hilton last year, and their app was a game-changer. I picked my room, checked in while grabbing a coffee at the airport, and breezed straight to my floor. No faff, no fuss. They’ve nailed these hotel apps trends, and it shows—guests love it, and their staff aren’t stuck behind a counter all day.
How to Make It Work
- Pick a solid app platform that syncs with your property management system (PMS) like a dream.
- Keep the process dead simple—clear buttons, no endless forms. I’ve seen apps where you’re clicking for days; don’t be that hotel.
- Train your team to help guests who aren’t tech wizards. My mum still prefers a human, so having staff ready to guide her through was a lifesaver.
2. Mobile Key Access: Your Phone’s the Key to Everything
Why It’s a Big Deal
Losing a key card is peak holiday stress—been there, done that. Mobile key access, one of the slickest hotel apps trends, lets you unlock your room with your phone. It’s not just about ditching plastic; it’s about making guests feel secure and in control.
The Benefits
- Guest Freedom: No more panicking about a lost card or queuing for a replacement. Your phone’s always with you (unless you’re me at a festival).
- Top-Notch Security: Keys expire when your stay does, so no randoms are sneaking in. It’s safer than a card left in a bar.
- Cost Savings: No cards to print or replace means more money for things like better coffee in the lobby.
Case Study: Marriott’s Keyless Magic
Marriott’s Bonvoy app is a poster child for mobile keys. I used it at a Marriott in Sydney, and walking past the key-card chaos felt smug as anything. They’ve rolled this out globally, and it’s cut down on guest complaints and staff workload—proof these hotel apps trends deliver.
Getting It Done
- Go for a platform with iron-clad security—nobody wants their phone hacked mid-holiday.
- Make instructions crystal clear. Marriott sent me a pre-arrival email with a step-by-step guide, which saved me faffing about.
- Have a backup for tech hiccups. I once hit a glitch, and the front desk sorted me with a smile—keep that human touch handy.
3. Self-Service Kiosks: Guests in the Driver’s Seat
Why It’s Taking Off
Self-service kiosks are like ATMs for hotels—quick, easy, and empowering. Guests can check in, pick rooms, or sort bills without a chit-chat, freeing up staff for the big stuff. It’s one of those hotel apps trends that’s quietly changing the game.
Why It’s Worth It
- Speedy Service: Guests zip through check-in, no queuing required. I used a kiosk at a busy hotel and was in my room before my mates hit the desk.
- Staff Focus: Front desk folks can tackle tricky requests or whip up a personalized welcome instead of scanning IDs.
- Extra Revenue: Kiosks can flash up offers—like a suite upgrade or dinner deal—right when guests are in the mood to say yes.
Real Example: Hilton’s Kiosk Win
Hilton’s kiosks are everywhere now, and they’re a hit. I saw one in action at a conference hotel—business travelers were loving the no-nonsense vibe. It’s not just about speed; Hilton uses the data to figure out what guests want, making these hotel apps trends a goldmine for insights.
How to Roll It Out
- Choose kiosks with simple screens and big, obvious buttons. I’ve seen clunky ones that feel like a uni exam—avoid those.
- Stick up clear signs pointing to the kiosks. Nobody wants to wander around like a lost puppy.
- Keep staff nearby for backup. Some guests (like my dad) will always need a hand, and that’s okay.
4. Mobile Payments: Cashless and Hassle-Free
Why It’s a Must
Paying with your phone is second nature now—whether it’s coffee or a cab. Hotels jumping on mobile payments, one of the core hotel apps trends, make settling bills as easy as a tap, keeping guests happy and operations smooth.
The Upsides
- Pure Convenience: No digging for cards or cash. I paid for room service via an app last trip, and it took seconds.
- Faster Transactions: Digital payments cut down on manual errors and speed up check-out—nobody’s counting coins at 7 a.m.
- Trust Factor: Secure systems mean guests feel safe, which is huge when you’re handing over card details.
Case Study: Starwood’s Early Bet
Before they joined Marriott, Starwood was all over mobile payments. I remember tapping my phone for a cocktail at their bar—no wallet needed. It streamlined their processes and made me feel like the future had arrived, showing why hotel apps trends matter.
Making It Happen
- Link up with big players like Apple Pay or Google Wallet—guests already use them, so it’s a no-brainer.
- Offer multiple options—cards, wallets, even QR codes. Flexibility keeps everyone happy.
- Lock down security tight. A mate had a scare with a dodgy app once; don’t let that be your hotel.
5. Loyalty Programs on Apps: Keep ‘Em Coming Back
Why It’s a Game-Changer
Loyalty programs aren’t new, but weaving them into apps is one of the smartest hotel apps trends out there. It’s about making guests feel special and giving them reasons to book again, all from their phone.
What You Get
- Repeat Bookings: A seamless app makes earning points feel like a treat, not a chore. I’m hooked on one chain because their app tracks my rewards effortlessly.
- Personal Touch: Data from loyalty apps lets you tailor offers—think free breakfast for a foodie guest.
- Goldmine of Insights: Knowing what guests love helps you market smarter and fill rooms faster.
Case Study: Hyatt’s Loyalty Love
Hyatt’s World of Hyatt app is a masterclass. I earned points for a spa day last stay, booked it right in the app, and felt like royalty. Their setup drives loyalty and cash flow, proving hotel apps trends can be a revenue rocket.
How to Nail It
- Pick a platform that syncs with your app and PMS—no guest wants to jump through hoops.
- Throw in perks like late check-out or exclusive deals. Small stuff makes a big difference.
- Use data to get personal but don’t creep anyone out. A tailored restaurant rec is great; a weirdly specific ad isn’t.
6. Personalized Recommendations: Make Every Stay Unique
Why It’s Special
Guests want experiences that feel like they’re made just for them. Using app data to suggest restaurants, activities, or spa deals—one of the hottest hotel apps trends—turns a standard stay into something memorable.
The Wins
- Delighted Guests: A spot-on dinner suggestion can make someone’s trip. I got a cracking bar rec from an app once and still rave about it.
- More Spending: Tailored offers nudge guests to book that massage or tour, padding your revenue.
- Feel-Good Factor: Showing you get their vibe builds trust and keeps them coming back.
Case Study: Airbnb’s Smart Suggestions
Airbnb’s app isn’t a hotel, but its recommendation game is tight. It suggested a local market based on my past trips, and I spent half a day there. Hotels can borrow this trick to make hotel apps trends work wonders.
How to Do It
- Pull data from your PMS or booking history to spot guest habits—don’t just guess.
- Team up with local spots for exclusive deals. A discount at a nearby cafe goes a long way.
- Use AI carefully to suggest stuff without being pushy. Nobody likes a hard sell mid-holiday.
7. Mobile Concierge: Your Hotel in Their Pocket
Why It’s a Lifesaver
A concierge in your phone? Yes, please. Mobile concierge services, a rising star in hotel apps trends, give guests 24/7 access to info—directions, bookings, or just a quick question—without waiting for a human.
Why It Rocks
- Always-On Help: Guests can sort dinner plans at midnight or find a taxi at dawn. I used an app to book a tour last minute—saved my day.
- Better Chats: In-app messaging means staff can focus on real issues, not just “where’s the gym?”.
- Proactive Vibes: Push notifications can remind guests about check-out or spa slots, making them feel cared for.
Case Study: Mandarin Oriental’s Class Act
Mandarin Oriental’s app is like a butler in your pocket. I used it to snag a restaurant booking in Bangkok, and it felt effortless. Their focus on hotel apps trends keeps guests loyal and operations humming.
Getting Started
- Pick a messaging platform that’s quick and reliable—laggy chats are a buzzkill.
- Build a solid FAQ section in the app. Most questions are predictable; answer them upfront.
- Train staff to jump in when needed. Tech’s great, but a human touch seals the deal.
8. Voice Assistants: Talk to Your Room
Why It’s Cool
Voice assistants like Alexa are sneaking into hotels, letting guests control their room with a word. It’s one of those hotel apps trends that feels futuristic but is already here, making stays smoother and more fun.
The Good Stuff
- Hands-Free Ease: Adjusting lights or ordering coffee by voice? I tried it and felt like a tech mogul.
- Personal Vibes: Assistants can share local tips or weather updates tailored to the guest.
- Accessibility Boost: For folks with mobility issues, voice controls are a game-changer.
Case Study: Marriott’s Voice Play
Marriott’s been testing Alexa in rooms, and it’s a hit. I used it to dim lights and order breakfast—zero hassle. It’s a prime example of hotel apps trends making life easier for guests and staff alike.
How to Pull It Off
- Choose a system that plays nice with your hotel’s tech setup—compatibility is key.
- Explain what the assistant can do with clear guides in rooms. I’ve seen guests skip it because they didn’t know how.
- Lock down privacy. Nobody wants their chats recorded—make sure guests feel safe.
9. Chatbots: Instant Answers, Anytime
Why They’re Handy
Chatbots are like a 24/7 mate in your app, answering questions faster than you can blink. Among hotel apps trends, they’re a low-cost way to keep guests happy and staff less swamped.
What’s Great About Them
- Round-the-Clock Help: Got a question at 2 a.m.? Chatbots don’t sleep. I used one to find late-night food options once—lifesaver.
- Personal Touch: Smart bots can suggest stuff based on your stay, like a spa deal if you’re there for R&R.
- Less Stress for Staff: Routine queries get handled by the bot, so humans can tackle the big stuff.
Case Study: Hilton’s Connie
Hilton’s chatbot, Connie, is a rockstar. I asked it for nearby bars, and it delivered spot-on picks in seconds. It’s a shining example of how hotel apps trends can boost guest vibes without breaking the bank.
Making It Work
- Pick a bot platform that learns fast and integrates with your systems.
- Feed it common questions—check-in times, Wi-Fi codes—so it’s ready to roll.
- Keep an eye on chats to tweak the bot. Guests hate robotic answers that miss the mark.
10. VR and AR: A New Way to Explore
Why It’s Exciting
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are the shiny new toys in hotel apps trends. They let guests tour your hotel before booking or explore the area with interactive maps, making stays feel like an adventure.
The Perks
- Pre-Booking Buzz: VR tours show off your hotel’s best bits, convincing guests to hit “book”. I checked out a resort’s pool in VR and was sold.
- Fun In-Room Extras: AR can turn a room into a treasure hunt or guide guests around town.
- Accessibility Wins: VR helps guests with disabilities preview spaces, making travel planning easier.
Case Study: Marriott’s Virtual Magic
Marriott’s VR tours let you “walk” through their hotels. I tried one before a trip and knew exactly what to expect—booked it on the spot. It’s a brilliant use of hotel apps trends to drive bookings.
How to Jump In
- Start small with a VR tour of your top rooms or lobby—don’t blow the budget.
- Invest in decent gear. Grainy VR is a turn-off; make it crisp and inviting.
- Train staff to show guests how to use it. Not everyone’s a tech nerd, and that’s fine.
Conclusion
The hospitality game’s changing, and hotel apps trends are leading the charge. From mobile check-ins that cut queues to VR tours that sell rooms, these tools make guests feel like VIPs while padding your profits. Whether it’s streamlining check-out, personalizing offers, or letting guests control their room by voice, each trend builds a better experience and keeps your hotel competitive.
At Emersion Wellness, they’ve cracked the code on guest satisfaction with ideas like wellness programs that pull in health-conscious travelers—think yoga retreats or spa packages that boost revenue (check out https://emersionwellness.com/ for inspo). Pair that with these app trends, and you’re onto a winner. Want to dive deeper? Hit up their team at https://emersionwellness.com/contact-us/ to chat about supercharging your hotel’s game plan. Let’s make your place the one everyone’s talking about.
FAQs
1. What hurdles come with building a hotel app?
Cash flow’s a big one—apps aren’t cheap to develop or maintain. Syncing with your existing systems, like your PMS, can also be a headache. I’ve seen hotels struggle when their app feels like a separate universe from their booking system.
2. How do you make an app guests actually love?
Keep it simple—nobody wants a maze of menus. Test it with real people, not just techies. I used an app once that crashed mid-check-in; a quick user test would’ve caught that.
3. How do you know if your app’s working?
Track downloads, how long guests spend on it, and what they buy through it. Guest reviews mentioning the app are gold too. I always check if folks are raving about the tech when I pick a hotel.
4. How do you keep guest data safe in an app?
Use top-tier encryption and stick to privacy laws like GDPR. I stayed at a place that was super clear about data use—made me trust them more. Regular security checks are a must.
5. What’s next for hotel apps trends?
AI’s getting smarter—think apps predicting what you’ll want before you ask. AR and VR will keep growing, maybe letting you “try” a spa day virtually. Staying curious about tech is key.
6. How do hotels stay ahead in app development?
Keep your ear to the ground—read up, hit conferences, talk to other hoteliers. I met a manager at a trade show who swore by tweaking their app every six months based on guest feedback.
7. Any risks with leaning hard into apps?
Tech can glitch—think app crashes during a busy check-in rush. Overdoing it might also alienate guests who prefer a human touch. My gran hates apps, so balance is everything.
8. How do you mix tech with personal service?
Use apps to handle the boring stuff—check-ins, bills—so staff can focus on chats and smiles. I loved a hotel where the app sorted my room, but the concierge still gave me a local tip.
9. How do you make apps accessible for all?
Follow guidelines like WCAG—think screen-reader support or big text options. I know someone who relies on voice controls; apps that get this right make travel easier for them.
10. What’s the budget vibe for an app?
Depends on what you want—basic check-in apps are cheaper than VR extravaganzas. Factor in design, coding, and updates. I’ve heard hotels spend anywhere from $10k to $100k to start, so plan smart.
I'm Nathan Baws, a nutrition nerd, exercise and weight loss expert, and an unwavering advocate for good health. As the founder of Emersion Wellness, I'm passionate about crafting Seamless Weight Loss Programs to supercharge hotel revenue and transform lives. We've pioneered the World's First Plug & Play Weight Loss Programs for top hotels and resorts, sparking a wellness revolution. Beyond my professional journey, you'll often find me hiking, swimming, and riding the waves, embracing every moment in nature. Join me on this exhilarating journey towards diet, health and wellness.