Montcalm hotels launches free Handy smartphone for guests

The device helps customers avoid costly roaming charges and service providers which don’t operate overseas.

Guests can use Handy to make local and international calls and use 3G data to access the internet.

The phone also updates with travel recommendations throughout the day,​ and includes interactive maps and a one-touch reservation option for restaurants and major attractions.

Next step in hotel tech​

Terence Kwok, CEO of Tink Labs, which created Handy, said: “Handy started as a bold idea to solve a travel problem but is now reshaping the tourism landscape.

“We are absolutely confident that Handy will soon be the must-have amenity for all international travelers.

“As the first hotel in London and Europe to provide the handy smartphone services, Montcalm is setting a precedent in creating a hassle-free travel experience for all hotel guests.“

The London launch marks Handy’s European debut after it was introduced in Hong Kong and Singapore earlier this year.

Ramesh Arora, managing director of Montcalm Hotels, said mobile connectivity should be a ‘given’ for hotel visitors in 2016.

“It means our international guests can stay connected to their world [and is] just one of the ways we're applying digital innovation to enhance the guest experience,” said Arora.

Handy is set to be launched in Montcalm's five other London hotels​ following its Marble Arch debut.

It is the latest way hotels are starting to use smartphone technology to shake up the guest experience. Aloft now allows visitors to order room service using different Emoji's.​