IoT in hospitality is no longer a future concept, it’s happening now. From smart locks and thermostats to predictive maintenance and energy-saving systems, IoT devices are reshaping how hotels operate. By adopting IoT technology, hospitality businesses can reduce costs, improve security, and deliver personalized guest experiences that keep customers coming back. In this article, we’ll explore IoT basics, use cases in hospitality, and real-world examples of hotels leading the way.
IoT Basics: How Does Internet Of Things Works In Hospitality?
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of physical devices, such as sensors, appliances, and connected hotel systems, that collect and exchange data in real time. These devices communicate seamlessly to optimize processes, improve decision-making, and enhance customer experiences.
In hospitality, IoT ranges from simple tools like motion sensors to advanced platforms like smart room assistants. For hotels, the value lies in automation, energy savings, and personalized service. By mastering the basics of IoT, hotels can unlock operational efficiency and build a competitive edge in an increasingly digital marketplace.
Statistics Of IoT In Hospitality Industry
The adoption of IoT in hospitality is accelerating quickly. According to Statista, the global smart hospitality market is projected to surpass $133 billion by 2031, driven by rising demand for connected guest experiences and operational automation. Research also shows that more than 60% of hoteliers consider IoT essential for improving energy efficiency and security, while over 55% are investing in smart room technologies to enhance guest satisfaction. These numbers highlight that IoT is no longer optional, it’s becoming a competitive necessity across the hospitality sector.
What Are The Benefits Of IoT In The Hospitality Industry?
IoT in hospitality delivers both operational and guest-facing benefits. By adopting IoT devices, hotels can streamline workflows, enhance safety, and create more personalized stays for guests.
Streamlined Operations
IoT devices can help automate and streamline operations in hotels, resorts, and other hospitality establishments. For instance, smart locks can be used to automate check-ins and check-outs, while smart thermostats can be used to regulate temperature and save energy.
Personalized Customer Experience
IoT devices can be used to provide guests with personalized experiences. For example, smart mirrors in hotel rooms can provide guests with personalized beauty and grooming recommendations, while smart TVs can be used to suggest movies and TV shows based on guests’ preferences.
Improved Safety and Security
IoT devices can be used to improve safety and security in hotels and resorts. For instance, smart cameras can be used to monitor the premises and detect unusual activity, while smart smoke detectors can alert staff and guests of potential fire hazards.
Energy Efficiency
IoT devices can help hotels and resorts save energy and reduce their carbon footprint. For example, smart lighting systems can be used to automatically turn off lights in unoccupied rooms, while smart HVAC systems can regulate temperature and save energy.
Predictive Maintenance
IoT devices can be used to monitor the condition of equipment and predict maintenance needs before they become critical. This can help prevent equipment breakdowns and minimize downtime, leading to improved operational efficiency and reduced costs.
Together, these IoT use cases in hospitality demonstrate how smart technology is transforming hotels, delivering efficiency, safety, and personalized service in one connected ecosystem.
IoT Trends in Hospitality: 9 Devices Transforming Guest Experience
Smart Locks
Smart locks are an essential IoT device for hotels as they offer a convenient and secure way for guests to enter their rooms without the need for physical keys. They can also help hotel staff to monitor room access and detect any unusual activity.
Advantages
- Streamline check-in and check-out process
- Improved security and safety for guests
- Reduced costs associated with lost or misplaced keys
Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats can be used to regulate temperature in hotel rooms, common areas, and meeting spaces, which can help reduce energy consumption and save costs.
Advantages
- Increased energy efficiency and cost savings
- Enhanced guest comfort and satisfaction
- Reduced environmental impact
Smart Mirrors
Smart mirrors can provide guests with personalized beauty and grooming recommendations, as well as a range of entertainment and informational content.
Advantages
- Personalized guest experience
- Increased guest engagement and satisfaction
- Opportunities for upselling products and services
Smart TVs
Smart TVs can be used to suggest movies and TV shows based on guests’ preferences, offer a range of content and services, and provide guests with useful information about the hotel and its amenities.
Advantages
- Personalized guest experience
- Increased guest engagement and satisfaction
- Opportunities for upselling products and services
Smart Lighting Systems
Smart lighting systems can be used to automatically turn off lights in unoccupied rooms, adjust lighting levels to suit different activities and moods, and create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
Advantages
- Increased energy efficiency and cost savings
- Enhanced guest comfort and satisfaction
- Reduced environmental impact
Smart Sensors
Smart sensors can be used to monitor guest occupancy, detect motion and activity, and control the use of utilities such as water and electricity.
Advantages
- Improved operational efficiency
- Increased energy efficiency and cost savings
- Enhanced guest comfort and satisfaction
Smart Smoke Detectors
Smart smoke detectors can detect potential fire hazards and alert hotel staff and guests of any potential danger.
Advantages
- Improved safety and security for guests
- Reduced risk of property damage
- Improved operational efficiency
Virtual Assistants
Virtual assistants can be used to provide guests with a range of services, including room service, housekeeping, and local recommendations.
Advantages
- Improved guest experience and satisfaction
- Increased efficiency and productivity
- Reduced staffing costs
Asset Tracking Devices
Asset tracking devices can be used to monitor and manage hotel assets, such as linens, towels, and cleaning supplies, ensuring that they are properly tracked and accounted for.
Advantages
- Improved operational efficiency
- Reduced costs associated with lost or misplaced assets
- Increased guest satisfaction and comfort
In conclusion, IoT devices offer numerous benefits to the hospitality industry, from improved customer experience and operational efficiency to increased safety and security and reduced costs. By embracing IoT technology, hotels and resorts can enhance their guest experience, streamline their operations, and stay competitive in an increasingly crowded marketplace.
IoT Use Cases In Hospitality Industry
While hotels are leading adopters of IoT, other areas of the hospitality industry are also embracing connected technologies:
- Resorts and Casinos: IoT-enabled occupancy sensors help manage crowd flow, while personalized room controls deliver luxury experiences at scale.
- Cruise Lines: Smart wearables track guest activity, provide real-time location updates, and even enable contactless payments onboard.
- Restaurants: Connected kitchen equipment monitors food safety and reduces waste, while IoT-powered ordering systems speed up service.
- Convention Centers: IoT-driven climate control and digital signage systems improve comfort and streamline large-scale event management.
These examples show how IoT use cases in hospitality extend beyond hotels, offering efficiency and personalization across the industry.
Leading Hotels Using IoT Technology Today
The impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) is already being felt in the hospitality industry as major hotel chains are beginning to recognize the potential benefits these devices can provide. Marriott, for example, is introducing motion-sensitive devices which will use sensors to identify when guests enter and exit rooms, allowing them to adjust lighting and temperature for optimal comfort. Meanwhile, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has partnered with Samsung to introduce its Smart Room service, with features such as automated check-in processes and interactive television. These examples demonstrate how IoT technology can create an enhanced guest experience from pre-arrival planning through to post-departure follow-up.
Best Practices for Incorporating IoT Solutions
With the rapid rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) and its ability to provide power and time-saving solutions, the hospitality sector is increasingly exploring ways to incorporate IoT into its services. Deploying IoT platforms in hotel operations effectively allows business owners to gain insight into operational efficiency, manage inventory more cost-effectively, customize guest experiences with personalized content, and improve building security. As such, hotels are advised to take proactive steps to evaluate existing infrastructures and find tailored IoT solutions that suit their specific needs. By embracing data-gathering technology, such as sensors that can collect temperature readings or occupancy levels for various hotel rooms, it is possible for hotels to become highly efficient and profitable in their operations.
Furthermore, investing in modern tools like access control systems can provide improved safety measures for both guests and staff alike. Ultimately, by aligning a smart technology strategy with operational goals, the hospitality industry can increase growth potential across all key performance metrics while providing a desirable experience for guests.
The Importance Of IoT Security For Hospitality
The hospitality sector is quickly adopting Internet of Things technology; however, it is essential that businesses take proactive steps to ensure security remains paramount. Without adequate security protocols in place, hospitality businesses risk leaving important customer data exposed and open to cyber attack or theft – a severe reputational and financial blow. Security must be addressed from several angles throughout the process, from design to implementation and use.
This means clearly defined policies for data usage and device management as well as robust encryption methods to protect sensitive customer information. Companies must take responsibility for maintaining the highest standards of security with IoT devices in order to keep customers safe and preserve their trust in the hospitality industry.
How IoT Analytics Can Improve Guest Experience & Loyalty Programs?
The use of IoT analytics has revolutionized how guest experience and loyalty programs are managed within the hospitality industry. Through the collection of data generated by customers, hotel operators now have valuable insights into areas such as guest demographics, preferences and engagement levels. This data can be used to tailor services towards guest needs, allowing for an enhanced experience with each visit.
Furthermore, it enables personalized rewards models that provide guests with meaningful rewards in exchange for loyalty and ensures that hotels remain competitive within the market. All in all, the use of IoT analytics provides substantial benefits for both guests and hospitality companies alike.
The Future Of Internet Of Things In Hospitality
IoT continues to evolve, with several major trends shaping the future of the hospitality industry.
AI & IoT Integration
Artificial intelligence will analyze IoT data in real time, enabling smarter decision-making and predictive personalization.
5G-Enabled Connectivity
Next-generation networks will allow thousands of IoT devices to connect seamlessly across large hospitality properties.
Sustainability Goals
IoT will help hotels achieve energy efficiency and ESG targets by tracking and optimizing utility use.
Voice-First Experiences
As virtual assistants become mainstream, voice-activated room controls will soon be a standard part of hotel guest experiences.
The Role Of Internet Of Things & VoIP In Modern Hospitality
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are two emerging technologies that are changing the landscape of telecommunications. VoIP enables voice communication to be transmitted over the Internet, which offers several advantages over traditional telephony, such as cost savings, scalability, and flexibility. Meanwhile, IoT involves connecting devices and machines to the internet, allowing them to exchange data and communicate with each other, creating a network of interconnected devices. This connectivity allows for better monitoring and control of systems, which can lead to increased efficiency, productivity, and cost savings. Together, VoIP and IoT can enhance telecommunications by providing seamless connectivity, real-time data exchange, and increased automation, making it easier for businesses and individuals to communicate and manage their operations.
Phonesuite’s Role In IoT for Hospitality
Phonesuite has been at the forefront of smart hospitality communication for decades. Our Voiceware platform integrates seamlessly with IoT devices and hotel management systems, enabling properties to deliver better service with less complexity.
From real-time analytics to secure call routing and automation, Phonesuite helps hotels connect IoT-driven guest experiences with reliable communication infrastructure. Whether you’re adopting smart room controls, upgrading safety systems, or streamlining staff workflows, Phonesuite ensures that IoT becomes a true advantage, not a complication, for your business.
Get Started With Phonesuite IoT & VoIP Solutions
Phonesuite helps hotels leverage IoT and VoIP to enhance guest satisfaction, cut costs, and streamline communication. Our solutions integrate seamlessly with your hotel’s operations, whether you’re upgrading guestroom technology or improving staff workflows.
With Phonesuite Voiceware, you’ll gain real-time insights, secure connectivity, and advanced analytics designed specifically for hospitality. Start transforming your hotel today with the tools that make IoT and communication simple, effective, and profitable.
Contact Phonesuite now and discover how IoT can take your hospitality business to the next level.
IoT In Hospitality FAQs
What is IoT in hospitality?
IoT in hospitality refers to the use of connected devices, such as smart locks, sensors, and automated lighting, that collect and share data to improve hotel operations and guest experiences.
What are examples of IoT in hotels?
Common IoT examples in hotels include smart thermostats, keyless entry locks, in-room virtual assistants, occupancy sensors, and smart TVs that recommend content based on guest preferences.
What are the benefits of IoT in the hospitality industry?
IoT benefits include streamlined operations, energy efficiency, improved safety and security, predictive maintenance, and personalized guest experiences that increase satisfaction and loyalty.
What is the impact of IoT on guest experience?
IoT transforms guest experience by offering convenience and personalization. For example, guests can control room temperature and lighting through voice commands, or receive entertainment tailored to their preferences.
How can hotels ensure IoT security?
Hotels can protect IoT systems by using end-to-end encryption, applying role-based access controls, updating device firmware regularly, and separating guest Wi-Fi from IoT networks to prevent unauthorized access.
Is IoT expensive for hotels to implement?
The cost of IoT implementation varies, but many hotels find that energy savings, reduced maintenance costs, and improved guest satisfaction lead to a strong return on investment.
What is the future of IoT in hospitality?
Future trends include AI-powered personalization, 5G-enabled connectivity for faster device communication, and sustainable IoT systems that help hotels meet energy and ESG goals.
