Hotel automation technology is a game-changer for hospitality.

When menial, repetitive tasks are automated, staff can focus on higher‑value work, guest experience improves, operations become leaner, sustainability improves, and the property becomes more adaptable and future‑proof.

Additionally, guest room automation technology delivers faster, more personalised, frictionless stays.

Studies show that smart hotel technology is a rapidly growing field with promising years ahead:

• The global hotel automation systems market was estimated at USD $18.52 billion in 2024, and is expected to grow to USD $25.3 billion by 2029.
• On the guest side, 73% of travellers say they are more likely to choose a hotel that offers self‑service technology (such as automated check‑in or mobile key).

Given the growing popularity of hotel automation solutions, including cutting‑edge GRMS (Guest Room Management Systems) and GREMS (Guest Room Energy Management Systems), let’s look at how hotel room automation is changing the game, what key technologies are emerging, and the real-world applications of automated hotel systems.

What is hotel automation technology?

Hotel automation can mean any number of integrated technologies that elevate guest experience, improve energy efficiency, and increase productivity.

What this looks like is changing, but in many cases, these are the same technologies we’re seeing in smart homes, just on a larger scale. And, of course, the larger the scale, the larger the cost saving and efficiency.

For instance, smart lighting systems can adjust brightness and colour to match guest preferences, use advanced CCTV systems to monitor premises and automatically send alerts in case of suspicious activity, and fully automate HVAC systems to adjust temperatures based on occupancy. Plus, advanced GRMS, which automate in‑room comfort and personalised controls, and GREMS, which optimise energy use and sustainability across guest rooms and properties.

How automation is changing the hospitality industry

Automation is reshaping the industry in ways that go beyond gimmicky tech, redefining how hotels operate, serve guests and stay competitive.

• Today’s travellers expect instant, seamless, personalised service. Hotels are responding with mobile check‑in/checkout, digital room keys and smart room controls.
• Labour shortages, rising wage costs and the need for 24/7 service are pushing hotels to use automation for scheduling, housekeeping workflows, maintenance alerts and more. For example, some systems automate routine maintenance tasks or optimise cleaning based on occupancy, freeing staff to focus on guest engagement.
• Finally, guest experience is becoming more customised, and more data‑driven; from lighting that automatically adjusts to personal preferences, to regulated room temperatures, and advanced security solutions.

Key technologies in hotel automation technology

Guest room automation system

Hotels are embedding sensors, connected devices and smart‑room technology to allow guests to control lighting, temperature, blinds or entertainment from apps or voice commands. A key component of this automation is GRMS, which centralises control of in‑room systems for a personalised and intuitive guest experience, and GREMS, which prioritises energy management and efficiency without compromising comfort.

Additionally, occupancy sensors and predictive algorithms allow hotels to adjust energy usage (dim lights or reduce HVAC when rooms are unoccupied), which delivers both sustainability and cost savings.

Self‑service check‑in, mobile keys and contactless technologies

One of the most visible automation innovations for guests: kiosks or mobile apps let guests check‑in, choose rooms, use their smartphone as a key, order services, all with minimal front‑desk interaction.

This not only improves convenience, but reduces queues, shortens wait times and enables hotels to reallocate staff to higher‑value guest interactions.

Building automation and energy‑management systems

Behind the scenes, hotels are deploying building automation systems (BAS) or building management systems (BMS) that integrate HVAC, lighting, shading and access control for improved efficiency and sustainability.

By controlling these systems centrally, hotels reduce operational costs and deliver more comfortable ambient conditions for guests.

Integrated tech stack and seamless systems

Automation only works when systems “talk” to each other. Modern hotels focus on integration of PMS, RMS (revenue management), CRM, booking engines, guest apps, IoT systems, housekeeping apps, forming an ecosystem rather than isolated tools.

This integration of hotel management software means guest data, operations, marketing and pricing all feed off each other to deliver smoother service and smarter decisions.

The future of automation in hotel industry

Smart hotel room automation has come a long way, but what can we expect next as part of the smart guest experience?

• Voice-controlled rooms, specifically integration of voice assistants for room control and service requests.
• Robotic assistance, meaning the use of robots for room service delivery and cleaning tasks. This is something we’re already seeing incorporated.
• Blockchain for security, enhancing data security and transaction transparency.
• Sustainability initiatives, meaning automated systems for waste management and energy conservation.

Hospitality automation technology : Case studies and real-world applications

Marriott: Mobile check‑in, keyless entry and guest requests

Marriott has been at the forefront of smart hotel technology, especially with mobile check‑in and keyless room entry.

According to Marriott’s own figures via an industry article, their “Mobile Key” solution allows guests to check in through the Marriott Bonvoy app up to a day in advance, skip front‑desk lines and unlock their room with a smartphone.

A Medium article reports that the mobile‑key system uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology and has been rolled out to over 6,000 properties globally, resulting in faster check‑in and less friction for guests.

YOTEL: Self‑service kiosks and robotic luggage storage

YOTEL’s hotel in New York (and other properties) showcases advanced automation via kiosks and robotics.

They implemented self‑service check‑in and check‑out kiosks with the assistance of Atos, enabling guests to go through the process without waiting at reception.

Additionally, YOTEL’s lobby features the “YOBOT”, a robotic arm (from ABB) which stores and retrieves guest luggage via automated lockers.

Hilton: Smart Guest Room / IoT Guest Experience

Hilton has embarked on its “Connected Room” hotel digital transformation, leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) devices and smartphone‑app control to deliver a personalised guest room management system.

According to an article, Hilton allows guests to use the Hilton Honors app to unlock doors, set room temperature and lighting, adjust drapes and use streaming services via their smartphone.

Hilton has rolled out Connected Room tech in 32 properties and uses cloud integration to manage these systems.

This has resulted in seamless hotel guest room automation, including tailored room environments, and enhanced convenience.

Additionally, the Hilton has gained data‑driven insight into preferences and energy usage.

How Crown Electrical Solutions can help

Crown Electrical Solutions helps developers and builders deliver homes, and multiple occupancy buildings, that stand out, attract guests and tenants, and remain future-ready with integrated electrical and automation systems.

We help future-focused clients across Sydney and NSW enjoy the very best that home automation has to offer.

With Crown Electrical Solutions, you’ll get:

• Turnkey delivery, with full design, electrical, automation, and commissioning under one contract.
• Streamlined integration through coordination with architects, consultants, and trades.
• Future-proof infrastructure with structured cabling, networking, and automation frameworks that support future upgrades.
• Scalable solutions, with tailored packages to suit entry-level, mid-range, and premium homes.
• Increased property value, enhancing saleability and buyer appeal.
• Ongoing support, with resident onboarding, training, and long-term service to ensure satisfaction well beyond handover.
• A proven track record, with outstanding results from luxury residences, boutique apartments, and multi-dwelling projects across NSW.

Our friendly and experienced team designs each hotel automation system to suit your exact needs.

Contact us today to learn more about how hotel room automation can improve your guest experience.