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Hotel Guest App Trends in 2026: What Guests Expect and Operators Need to Know

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Hotel Guest App Trends in 2026: What Guests Expect and Operators Need to Know

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT October 29, 2025
Hotel Guest App Trends in 2026: What Guests Expect and Operators Need to Know

Technology continues to reshape how guests plan, book, and enjoy their stays. The hotel guest app have moved beyond simple mobile check-in and keyless entry. In 2026, they are becoming the centerpiece of the guest experience and a major driver of revenue, loyalty, and operational efficiency. 

So what is changing and where should hotel leaders focus? 

Why guest apps are still growing fast 

Travelers have become comfortable managing every part of a trip on their phones. For hotels, that creates a huge opportunity to connect directly with guests before, during, and after their stay. Apps no longer just replace the front desk; they now influence spending, guest satisfaction, and long-term loyalty.

1. Personalization powered by guest data 

Guests expect recommendations tailored to their preferences and stay history. hotel guest apps are now integrating with PMS, POS, and loyalty systems to serve up timely suggestions: 

  • Spa or dining add-ons tied to package bookings 
  • Personalized welcome messages and room preferences 
  • Relevant upgrades or offers based on past choices 

The more unified your systems are, the better your app can anticipate and influence spend. 

2. Unified booking beyond rooms 

In 2026, a room reservation is just the start. Guests want to book everything from the palm of their hand: 

  • Restaurant and bar seating 
  • Spa and golf tee times 
  • Local tours and activities 
  • Package entitlements like credits or vouchers 

Apps that tie into property-wide availability give guests a frictionless way to plan and spend, a key insight from hotel mobile app trends 2026 that continues to shape innovation. 

3. Real-time communication and support 

Push notifications and chat features are becoming standard. Instead of waiting in line or calling, guests can: 

  • Request housekeeping or extra amenities 
  • Get real-time updates about room readiness or wait times 
  • Chat with staff or AI-powered support for quick answers 

This drives satisfaction and helps reduce call volume. 

4. Contactless payments and digital wallets 

Guests expect seamless, secure ways to pay in-app, using their preferred methods: 

  • Apple Pay, Google Pay, and loyalty points 
  • Split payments between personal and corporate cards 
  • Charging directly to the room or pre-paid packages 

The easier and safer you make spending, the more revenue your app can capture. 

5. Loyalty programs that feel instant and rewarding 

Modern apps let guests track and redeem points with just a few taps. Some even reward healthy or sustainable choices, like eco-friendly housekeeping or plant-based meals. Making loyalty visible and actionable inside the app keeps guests engaged beyond checkout. 

6. Sustainability and transparency features 

Travelers want to know their choices make a difference. Apps are starting to include: 

  • Carbon footprint tracking for stays 
  • Opt-in housekeeping or linen reuse options 
  • Food sourcing transparency in restaurants 

This appeals to eco-conscious guests and supports corporate sustainability goals. 

Key takeaways for hotel operators 

  • Integrate systems: PMS, POS, and booking tools must share data for a truly seamless hotel guest app experience. 
  • Think beyond the room: Make everything bookable and upgradable in-app. 
  • Meet guests where they are: Push real-time info and support to reduce friction and build loyalty. 
  • Monetize convenience: Upsells, packages, and loyalty engagement all increase revenue when easy to access. 

Ready to deliver the mobile experience guests now expect? 

Agilysys helps hospitality operators create connected, guest-first digital journeys that drive satisfaction and spending. 

Talk with our team about optimizing your guest app strategy 

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