Written by PatrickJ on Saturday, August 19, 2006

Marriott Testing Wireless Check-In via Windows Mobile

Marriott pic

Marriott Hotels have announced that they’re going to be testing wireless check-in via Windows Mobile smartphones.

During testing, guests with Microsoft Windows Mobile-powered Smartphones running the PocketPC Platform can simply download and install Marriott’s seamless mobility software from Arrive.

Using the internet they can then connect securely to the Redmond Marriott Town Center hotel’s property management system and check in to their room while in transit to the hotel. Guests will also be able to change room types, receive welcome information and reconfirm their room rates. When they arrive at the hotel, guests retrieve their room keys from a conveniently located automated key dispenser in the lobby.

Critical to the test is innovative software developed by Intel Solution Services to Marriott’s requirements that enables guests to check-in while in motion and eliminates the need to restart the check-in process, even if the wireless signal is lost in transit Information entered by travelers will be automatically restored when the signal is re-established.

Initially, this will be tested at a Marriott location in Redmond, Washington. I guess they will probably be able to find a few Windows Mobile users round that neck of the woods. This seems a cool idea and one that should be well received if it works well.

For more details, check the Slashphone post:

Marriott Hotel working on mobile wireless check-in