Do Hotels Need to Pay for Every Television?
The question of whether hotels need to pay for every television goes beyond the initial hardware cost. While the price of a TV itself is a significant factor, there are ongoing costs associated with providing in-room entertainment that hoteliers must consider. One popular solution is integrating smart TVs, like Roku TVs, into guest rooms. This approach offers guests access to streaming services and potentially reduces the need for traditional cable or satellite subscriptions. However, managing these devices and ensuring a seamless guest experience can introduce new challenges and expenses.
One major concern for hotels using Roku TVs is the device limit per account. Roku currently restricts each account to a maximum of 20 devices. For larger hotels with numerous rooms, this limitation necessitates creating multiple Roku accounts, complicating device management and potentially incurring additional costs.
Another challenge arises from integrating existing paid services, such as cable TV subscriptions, into the guest experience. While many providers offer streaming apps, using them in Guest Mode often requires guests to log in individually. This can be inconvenient for guests and might necessitate sharing login credentials, raising security concerns. Ideally, hotels would be able to pre-authorize access to these apps through a centralized management system, eliminating the need for guest logins.
Furthermore, there’s a growing need for a comprehensive platform tailored to the hospitality industry. This platform should allow hotels to customize the guest experience, including branding, welcome messages, and featured apps. While Roku offers some customization options, more robust features specifically designed for commercial use are highly desirable. Think of features like displaying hotel information, promoting on-site amenities, or providing access to concierge services directly through the TV interface.
Finally, the cost comparison between solutions like Roku TVs and dedicated hospitality TV systems is crucial. While individual Roku TVs are significantly cheaper than high-end hospitality TVs with integrated management software, the long-term costs, including potential subscription fees, multiple account management, and the lack of tailored features, must be factored into the decision-making process. Ultimately, the best solution depends on the specific needs and budget of each hotel, balancing upfront hardware costs with ongoing operational expenses and the desired guest experience. The question isn’t just about the cost per television, but the overall cost of providing a comprehensive and engaging in-room entertainment solution.
