Currently there are two Holiday Inn’s that are using smartphones, specifically the iPhone, Android, and Blackberry, to replace keycards for their hotel rooms. The new system allows guests to make reservations online, then sends out a text message to the phone the day the guests reserved the room. In the text message is the guest’s room number and link to unlock the room door. With this method guests who are in a rush may simply check in and check out in a hurry. The two hotels will be testing the system from now through December.
Although the first concept of a “smartphone” was laid out by IBM, with the introduction of Simon in 1992; the first phone, labeled a “smartphone” was the GS88 by Ericsson in 1997. In ’97 the smart phone contained a calendar, address book, world clock, calculator, note pad and e-mail; items that are considered a standard in today’s market. However, the standard of smart phones shifted when the world was introduced to devices such as the iphone in ’07 or the android in ’08. Now, smartphones are expanding in so many ways, that its taking the roles of countless products.
Smartphones are becoming limitless in possibilities, in particular because of the phones ability to download and use applications. The more apps that are made, the more faces the smartphone can put on.
http://www.nytimes.com/external/readwriteweb/2010/09/22/22readwriteweb-smartphones-begin-to-replace-hotel-keycards-4204.html?ref=technology
I agree that advancements for “smartphones” do seem endless. Time and time again, apps are created to provide their customers with anything from business information to leisure games. This newest advancement for the Holiday Inn check-in/check-out services is another example of how smartphones continue to make every day occurrences easier and faster. As smartphones and their apps continue to grow, they are also helping business in other industries, such as the Holiday Inn. Many stores and companies have started to market their products through apps.
ReplyDeleteJustin, good job summarizing your article, but please provide more personal opinion on your next entry. Would this technology make it any more likely for you to stay at a Holiday Inn?
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