With the Apple Watch only recently hitting the market, the full potential of the technology has yet to be tapped. But as developers have more time to explore its possibilities, the convenience, versatility and clarity of the Watch interface will doubtless continue to streamline our daily interactions with the world. And when it comes to hotels, the wait is over! The award-winning Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) loyalty-program app, now available on the Apple Watch, interacts with the following hotels to make your trip as sleek and convenient as that gadget on your wrist.
1. St. Regis Osaka - Osaka, Japan
Once you've arrived in Osaka, the SPG app provides step-by-step navigation to the St. Regis in both your default language and Japanese. Throughout your stay, the app can serve as a transportation information hub, listing multiple transportation options and estimated travel costs. Japan's extensive public transportation system? Consider it conquered (or at least manageable from your wrist).
2. W Mexico City - Mexico City, Mexico
Like with many existing and upcoming Apple Watch apps, SPG will alter the look, feel and content depending on where you travel. Essential hotel details, weather, directions and hotel amenities are automatically listed, as well as reservation information, directions and more. The content also varies depending on whether you're planning your trip, en route or already checked in. Now that's a smart watch. Not sure where to eat or what to do in Mexico City? The SPG app has plenty suggestions for that, as well as transportation tips and estimates tailored to your hotel and target destinations.
3. Westin Crystal City - Arlington, VA
The Westin Crystal City in Arlington brings that same convenience to checking in, interacting with the SPG app on the Watch. Reservation details and confirmation numbers are available with a twist of the wrist for more efficient check-ins at the front desk. Better yet, skip the front desk entirely! You can now check-in 24 hours before an estimated arrival time, get as room number and opt to use the Watch as a room key. Arrive at the hotel, head straight to your room, wave your wrist over the door lock and enjoy a key-free stay.
4. Aloft Harlem - New York, NY
"Clap-on-clap-off" used to be the rallying cry for household convenience. Smart watches aim to go a step beyond, giving guests greater control over their increasingly intelligent hotel rooms. At the Aloft Harlem, the Apple Watch doubles as a remote that can adjust essential room components with ease, such as the lighting and temperature, making you feel much more at home in the bustle of northern Manhattan. You can even share content -- like movies or pics of your trip -- through the room's 42" LCD TV through the connected Apple TV boxes.
5. Le Meridien Nice - Nice, France
It's nice to feel valued, which is one thing that makes guest loyalty programs so great. At Le Meridien, the Apple Watch serves as a hub for all SPG loyalty information: access your account, gain Starpoints, receive alerts and check-in with social media channels such as FourSquare and Facebook, all with a laissez-faire attitude as you explore the French Mediterranean.