Starwood trials smartphone check-in
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Starwood Hotels & Resorts is trialling a new system that would allow guests to bypass the reception desk and access their rooms using only their smartphones.
The system, which is currently being tested at two Aloft hotels in the US, is being provided in partnership with Swedish lock manufacturer, Assa Abloy. Using Bluetooth technology, guests will be able to scan their phones next to the lock and automatically open the door.
“Coming soon, travellers can opt-out of traditional check-in completely – no more lines, visits to the front desk, swiped credit cards, or even keys – and instead use their smart phone to check-in and open their guest room door,” the company said in a statement. “A truly keyless check-in allows the first guest interaction with hotel associates to be personal rather than transactional.”
Pending the results of a three-month trial at the Aloft Harlem in New York and Aloft Cupertino in California, Starwood said it could potentially roll-out the system to more Aloft- and W-branded hotels in 2015.
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