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Hospitality’s High-Tech Horizon: 2025’s Game-Changing Innovations

Smart phone with smart home and modern technology in a hotel room.

The hospitality industry is in the midst of rapid transformation – most of it driven by cutting-edge technology.

Artificial intelligence and smart room Internet of Things (IoT) have let guests personalize their stays. Hotels can now enhance guest satisfaction and streamline daily operations for the best.

Below are the top technology trends going into the new year that may reshape your guests’ experience. Be careful. They may boost repeat business and increase revenue.

AI and robotics, oh my!

Artificial intelligence has been forefront of media and business conversations for years. AI is no longer a science fiction topic in the future. Hotel guests almost expect the technology.

From AI-driven chatbots that provide 24-hour customer service to streamlining rooms and concierge services. Robotics can now perform tasks to enhance efficiency while reducing human error.

There was a time when GEM Journal felt AI could damper the guest experience. However, the technology has proven it can coexist and work as an assistant.

Read more: 3 Ways to Blend Human Intelligence with AI

Use data to create personalized guest experiences

Big data and analytics are your friends. You can offer your guests highly personalized experiences based on previously recorded stays.

Guest preferences and behaviors provide a roadmap for future visits. You can use that data to tailor your hospitality services. Do your guests prefer local experiences? Do they prefer cost-saving value? Maybe they’re fans of wellness trends.

The data can help you anticipate guest needs and expectations. Use data to determine how to meet and exceed customer satisfaction.

Smart room technology

Smart room technology provides more than convenience. It can also be used for energy efficiency. Eco-friendly travelers will appreciate using energy-efficient lighting, smart thermostats, and water conservation systems.

However, most of this technology can be controlled by guests’ smartphones. Think about the ability to warm your room on a cold night without needing to leave the covers of your bed. Not only will guests appreciate the eco-friendly technology, but it’ll also save you money in energy operations.

Enhance connectivity

The Internet of Things (IoT) helps guests connect with their devices and room amenities. Using a voice-activated assistant (similar to your Google Home or Echo Dot) monitors maintenance needs around the property.

It takes the guesswork out of guest services. Keep your team proactive and reduce their downtime by efficiently keeping them busy. IoT provides more personalized control to your guests while optimizing operations and hotel management.

Virtual reality

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) offer immersive experiences. Guests can take virtual hotel tours and book stays using augmented reality. It provides an interactive and memorable experience.

Augmented reality is a technology that can be used now before the rest of the hotel market jumps on the trend. You can showcase your hotel’s amenities and services far before guests enter the building’s doors.

Cybersecurity and data protection

It seems every quarter, there’s another major data breach making headlines. Guests may be numb to identity theft at this point, but protecting guest data will never be wasted.

Especially in a jaded world, hotels investing in security protocols to protect guest data will build trust and loyalty. Invest in cybersecurity strategies beyond the status quo to safeguard your guests’ personal information.

Hotel leaders who embrace cutting-edge technology and experience will have a leg up in an extremely competitive market this year – and in the future.