EXPECTING the Apple Watch to bring about the next wave of disruption in travel, major tourism and hospitality companies are preparing for the wearable’s debut with their own apps.
One such company is Emirates, which this week announced the launch of its own Apple Watch app, one month ahead of the device’s April 24 launch date set for the US, UK, China, Hong Kong and Japan.
Alex Knigge, senior vice president, digital, Emirates, said in a statement: “The Apple Watch platform allows us to connect with travellers on a more personal level by providing real-time information throughout their journey.
“Our team developed the Emirates app for Apple Watch with modern travellers in mind, making sure this wearable technology delivers key information, with a simple glance at their wrist.”
Customers with an Apple Watch and the Emirates app installed on their iPhones will be able to review their list of upcoming trips, access real-time flight information including gate number, flight number and baggage collection details, and receive timely notifications in the event of gate number or baggage belt changes.
Other travel companies with their own Apple Watch apps include Expedia, which enables users to view flight information and check in and out of hotels; TripAdvisor, which suggests and searches for restaurants and nearby attractions; and Uber, which notifies users of nearby available cars for hire and allows them to request one.
Starwood Hotels and Resorts has also rolled out its own programme that not only displays hotel reservation details, but also saves users the hassle of checking in at the front desk.
After checking in using the app, users can go directly to their room and with the device’s near field communication function, unlock the door without a physical key.
