Near-Field Communications

Operators are always on the lookout for better ways to engage with customers and to quickly adapt to business challenges. Thanks to a wide range of innovative technologies, business owners are able to that and much more.

Yogurt retailer has partnered with MICROS to enable customers to use smartphones to pay, redeem coupons, and receive discounts.

A California resort has enhanced its existing locking system by installing the next-generation of VingCard Elsafe technology.

In May, Google marked its official entrance into the NFC-payment space with the introduction of Google Wallet. HT takes an in-depth look at this mobile payment advancement and its potential benefit to restaurants. Plus, Robert Notte, VP of IT for Jamba Juice, reveals the details behind his company's Google Wallet pilot.

The new Crypto Acoustic Credential Upgrade Module is designed to upgrade every major electronic-locking system to be mobile-device compatible in a cost-effective manner.

Subway and Jamba Juice are among those with plans to test an application that utilizes NFC to enable customers to pay for purchases by tapping their phones on any PayPass-enabled terminal at checkout.

When it comes to mobile point-of-sale technology, are restaurants better off investing in tried-and-true commercial devices or consumer-grade solutions, such as iPads or smartphones? Operators weigh the pros and cons of price, durability, battery life and more.

In its annual trend report, HT looks at some of the top consumer trends and technology advancements impacting the guestroom experience. This year, it's all about energy management, mobile phone integration, television content and the iPad.