As travelers become more connected and discerning, in-room guest technology is no longer a luxury; it’s a vital part of the guest experience. More importantly, it’s becoming easier to use and often completely invisible, simply enhancing the overall experience.
Looking ahead, the coming years will usher in a wave of innovation that will redefine how guests engage with hotel rooms and services, seamlessly integrating technologies. The 2025 Lodging Technology Study found the top initiatives include driving guest loyalty, enhancing data security, integrating AI, and enhancing bandwidth connectivity. Let’s review how these categories can positively impact hotels.
Generative AI Will Power Personalised In-Room Experiences
AI will evolve from scripted chatbots to sophisticated generative AI concierges embedded in TVs, tablets, phone and voice assistants.
Guests will expect natural, conversational interactions — in their preferred language to:
- Make requests and book restaurants or spas
- Get recommendations
- Troubleshoot issues instantly
Hotels that adopt AI agents connected to their PMS, POS, and service management systems will deliver unprecedented personalisation, increased efficiency, and seamless guest service.
Mobile-First, Contactless Everything
We’ll see mobile phones becoming the central control hub for the entire stay. Over the next few years, a majority of midscale to luxury hotels are expected to offer:
- Mobile keys integrated with both Apple & Google Wallet, simplifying the entire experience and working effortlessly — just like an airline boarding pass
- Complete mobile check-in and check-out with digital ID verification
- Control of in-room settings (e.g., temperature, lights, curtains) directly from guests’ devices, prioritising the experience and energy savings
These features will not only improve convenience but also reduce queues and front desk dependency, allowing staff to provide better overall service when required.
Next-Generation IPTV & Integrated Casting
Cloud-based IPTV platforms will become more widespread, giving hotels the ability to:
- Offer guests the same OTT apps they use at home, including Netflix, Prime Video, etc.
- Enable secure, hotel-grade casting for personal content from any device
- Deliver targeted promotions or upsell opportunities through the TV interface
The distribution of traditional linear channels will decline, while innovations such as FAST channels, simplified casting, curated local content, and integration with loyalty programs for personalised viewing experiences will grow.
Sustainability & ESG-Driven Smart Rooms
Energy savings and environmental responsibility are becoming critical for guests and regulators. In the next few years, adoption of occupancy-based automations will accelerate:
- HVAC adjusting automatically using advanced Energy Management Systems (EMS)
- Intelligent dashboards showcasing a guest’s energy savings
- Preference-based initiatives (e.g., offering loyalty points for skipping housekeeping)
These features help hotels meet ESG goals while delighting eco-conscious travelers and reducing overall costs.
Seamless Ecosystems: From Room to Resort
Guests are increasingly expecting a seamless experience across all hotel facilities — rooms, restaurants, gyms, and pools. The future will bring:
- Integrated apps or wearables enabling guests to charge F&B, book spa treatments, or access facilities without the need for cards or paper vouchers
- Cross-property personalization for hotel groups, allowing guests to enjoy consistent experiences wherever they stay
- The ability to pay with accrued loyalty points for hotel extras including F&B to enhance loyalty
Security, Privacy & Compliance at the Forefront
With the growing number of data-collecting devices, hotels must ensure:
- Compliance with evolving privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, upcoming AI-specific legislation)
- Enterprise-grade network security to safeguard guests’ personal devices and streaming sessions
- Transparency with guests about how data is used and stored
According to HT’s 2024 Customer Engagement Technology Study, 71% of hotel guests report that they’re more likely to return to a hotel that provides the technology and security they value. Every technology and touchpoint for hotels should have security at the forefront when planning upgrades.
What’s next for the future of in-room guest technology?
Over the next two to three years, guest expectations will continue to be influenced by their experiences at home and in other industries. Hotels that adopt these technologies thoughtfully and securely will gain advantages in guest satisfaction, loyalty, and operational efficiency.
Now is the time to begin planning. Interested in learning more about how Nomadix can support your future in-room guest technology? Feel free to reach out or book a meeting.
Tim Butterworth started his hospitality career as a hotel trainee, rising to General Manager at Radisson Edwardian Hotels. He then advanced hotel networking and telecoms with Alcatel, in-room entertainment with Quadriga, and led in-room tablet innovation as CCO at Crave Interactive. Today, at Nomadix, he leverages over 20 years of hospitality tech expertise to deliver solutions that transform the guest experience.