Trend in the hotel sector

'Contactless' technology: the present and the future for hotels, post-covid

Hotels are adapting to offer more efficient, comfortable and safe experiences

27/10/2020
'Contactless' technology: the present and the future for hotels, post-covid

The arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our entire world, forcing businesses to adapt to the new social distancing requirements established by health legislation. Fortunately, the latest advances in digitalization and contactless technology allow hotels to guarantee maximum security for their customers.

What is contactless technology?

Contactless technology consists of establishing a wireless communication connection between several electronic devices without physical contact between them, usually via bluetooth or RFID. This offers a wide range of utilities for companies and users, such as card payments in shops or access to hotel rooms using digital keys.

As with airports, where it is now possible to check in and show your boarding pass from a mobile pone; hotel guests can easily access their rooms via a smartphone app using Bluetooth electronic locks, without having any contact with hotel staff, as they no longer have to go to Reception to receive their key or entry card.

Likewise, contactless technology can also be implemented in the rest of the tourist and holiday accommodation sector, to prevent possible infections and increase the safety of customers and employees.

Advantages of contactless electronic locks

By receiving their digital key on their own smartphone, the protection of the customer’s health is ensured when booking a hotel room. In addition, there are, no queues or unnecessary waiting to check in or conduct any other business at Reception, so the overall user experience is improved.

From the point of view of hotels, technological innovation allows them to continue their business safely, avoiding possible outbreaks and complying with all hygienic and sanitary measures in their establishments. It is the best way to give confidence to the public and reinforce the corporate image of hotel companies.

How do digital keys work?

First, the hotel creates a code for each visit which is transmitted via an app. As soon as the reservation is confirmed, guests receive a link by email to access their personal code, so that, upon arrival at the accommodation, they can go directly to their room and open it using their smartphone.

Many of these Bluetooth locks offer the possibility of accessing different rooms simultaneously with a numeric code, so that customers who prefer it can enter with a password previously provided by the establishment. A good example of this is the Code BLE electronic hotel lock.

Other options are the EVO and Gaudi BLE electronic lock models, which add MiFare proximity card opening to Bluetooth, should the guest wish to have a physical card to enter the room. Also, the Fit-In BLE electronic lock offers the possibility of renewing chip, magnetic card or RFID mechanical locks to convert them into Bluetooth opening electronic locks; thus updating the building at the lowest possible cost.

Secure remote management

Another of the advantages of contactless electronic locks is that they incorporate special software for remote management via an app and a network of Gateways. These systems collect statistics and make it easier to control the hotel's activities at all times; thus optimising both the daily organisation and security of the establishments. In addition, locks can be opened from Reception while monitoring the battery level.

Additionally, digitalization of hotels makes it possible for staff to receive requests from guests on their computers in real time, as well as instructions from their superiors. This makes it possible to streamline the daily operation of hotels, increasing efficiency and, therefore, the degree of customer satisfaction.

Other contactless devices for hotels

Apart from electronic room locks, hotels can also install access control systems using Bluetooth, proximity cards and numeric keypads to increase the security of common areas, such as the lobby, car parks, dining rooms and lifts. Contactless technology can even be used for safes in the rooms themselves.

All these electronic devices guarantee maximum safety and health protection, both for guests and personnel in tourist accommodation. Contact us if you are interested in installing any of these technological solutions at your establishment.