Raise your hand if you’ve ever done the hotel key shuffle. You stroll confidently up to your room, and the fumbling begins … you know you left your key somewhere, is it in your pocket? Which pocket? Wallet? You swear you just saw it … dude, where’s my key?

A new app using Bluetooth® Smart technology helps guests open their doors on the spot. Created for Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) members, the app lets guests check in, get their room number, and unlock their door without stopping first at the front desk.

The hotel industry is just the latest to tap into the pervasiveness of Bluetooth enhanced smartphones. Due to Bluetooth technology’s industry-leading wireless security and power-efficient operation that won’t drain battery life, travelers can rest easy knowing that their hotel rooms are secure, and their smartphones stay charged for their travel needs.

“Through mobile, we have the opportunity to marry high tech and high touch to transform the hotel experience in many exciting ways,” said Starwood Chief Frits van Paasschen. The benefits extend beyond the practical. “Not only does SPG Keyless alleviate a perennial pain point for travelers, but it also transforms the first interaction with our guests from one that is transactional to something more personal.”

The app, which users can access via iPhone, iPad, Android, or Apple Watch, debuted in November 2014 at select properties and will be available at all Aloft, W, and Element hotels worldwide by the end of 2015.

Learn more at www.spgpromos.com/keyless

Updated 4/27/2015: The Apple Watch now opens hotel rooms at Starwood hotels. Read the story here: http://www.technobuffalo.com/2015/04/24/apple-watch-now-opens-hotel-rooms-at-starwood-hotels/

(Credit: Nanci Taplett)