Hospitality unicorn OYO announced on Monday (July 24) the launch of a virtual front desk solution, powered by ChatGPT, for its partner hotels in the UK. The solution aims to facilitate self check-in for guests, reducing waiting times and offering a seamless five-minute check-in experience.
Improved Guest Experience and Front Desk Operations
By integrating the self check-in technology with smart lock systems, OYO enables guests to have keyless entry and exit, enhancing their overall experience. The ChatGPT-enabled solution supports over 80 languages, ensuring international travelers who may not speak the local language receive swift assistance and resolution.
OYO projects a significant reduction of approximately 60% in front desk operations expenses for its UK hotels, leading to average annual savings of €50,000. Moreover, the virtual front desk solution will analyze guest preferences and offer personalized recommendations for activities, dining options, and local attractions.
Future Expansion and Benefits for Hotel Owners
The ChatGPT-powered self check-in solution is now available in the UK. OYO has not revealed its plans to introduce this feature in other locations, such as India. The CEO of OYO International, Gautam Swaroop, highlighted the benefits of the virtual front desk. It offers guests personalized recommendations and boosts bookings on OYO’s platforms, creating more revenue opportunities for hotel owners.
OYO-Tech Advancements and New Brand Launch
OYO’s commitment to technological innovation has been evident in the development of AI-enabled solutions for hotels. The startup’s pricing engine, driven by AI-enabled tech solutions, has executed over 11 million price modifications in the UK market. Additionally, OYO recently introduced its new brand, Palette, catering to upscale resorts and hotels, aimed at appealing to premium travelers.
OYO- Financial Progress and Market Developments
Amidst market developments, OYO filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and turned cash flow positive in the quarter ended March 2023. The company projects a surplus cash flow of INR 90 Crores by the end of the quarter.
Generative AI is becoming popular in India. Indian startups are incorporating ChatGPT and GPT-4 into their tech stack. They use it for developing industry-specific applications. Companies like ixigo and Swiggy are leveraging generative AI to improve user experiences. They launch products powered by AI to provide personalized recommendations for their users.
