Tink Labs has brought a hotel smartphone called ‘handy’ to the South African market. Handy is a hotel hospitality IoT (Internet of things) solution designed to increase both revenue and guest satisfaction, as well as drive better cost efficiencies.

Guests who stay at handy’s hotel partners in South Africa will be given complimentary use of the device. The service includes free local and international calls, Internet access, speed dialling to hotel services, access to local emergency services, and essential travel information. Travellers can also explore customised city guides, curated by experienced content provider Luxos, to discover new experiences.

The smartphone is equipped with a near-field communication (NFC) chip enabling keyless door access, a transmitter connecting to in-room entertainment, and a contact-charging capability. Handy, already available in 70 cities, is a partner of leading international hotel groups, such as AccorHotels, InterContinental and Sheraton.

Steven To, Managing Director for Africa of Tink Labs, said: “A mobile-first strategy has become more critical than ever for an enriched travel experience. Handy will connect travellers so they can enjoy South Africa as a premier travel destination, reveal local gems on the go and share their experiences.”

One of the first partners of handy in South Africa, Michelle De Faria, General Manager of Gardenia Boutique Hotel, Johannesburg, explained her rationale: “At Gardenia, our guests seek unique travel experiences and ultimate convenience when they explore the city. With the partnership with handy, we are able to increase the engagement with them.”