Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide is transforming smartphones into room keys via SPG Keyless, unveiling plans for the rollout of its app-powered mobile keyless entry system in 150 hotels around the world by early 2015.Initially debuting in 10 hotels, Starwood states the system will redefine check-in, enabling guests to bypass front desk and go directly to their room, accessible by a tap of their smartphone.
SPG Keyless operates via the SPG App, available via compatible iPhone and Android devices.
After booking a reservation at a keyless hotel, approximately 24 hours before arrival SPG members will be invited to opt in to SPG Keyless.
Guests will receive a push notification noting that they are checked in, with the SPG App updating with the room number and Bluetooth key when the room is ready.
“Upon arrival at the hotel, the guest can completely bypass the front desk (where available) and go directly to his/her room,” Starwood states.
“After ensuring his/her Bluetooth is enabled, the guest simply opens the SPG App, holds the smartphone to the door lock, waits for the solid green light and enters the room.”
SPG Keyless will go live from November 5 at the Aloft Beijing, Aloft Cancun, Aloft Cupertino, Aloft Harlem, W Doha, W Hollywood, W Hong Kong, W New York Downtown, W Singapore and Element Times Square.
In July, Hilton Worldwide advised it will begin to equip its hotel rooms with technology for doors to be unlocked with guests’ smartphones in 2015.
