In a notable initiative to improve the travel experiences for blind and low-vision individuals, Hilton Hotels has announced a partnership with Be My Eyes, a renowned technology platform that leverages artificial intelligence to provide visual assistance. This collaboration marks a significant effort to make the hospitality sector more inclusive and accessible. By utilizing AI-enabled tools and offering live support from sighted volunteers, Hilton aims to dismantle barriers that traditionally hinder those with visual impairments from fully enjoying their stays in hotels.
The partnership allows users of the Be My Eyes app in the United States and Canada to access personalized assistance that goes beyond mere basic support. By contacting Hilton Reservations and Customer Care teams through the app, users can receive real-time help with various in-room accommodations. From adjusting thermostats to operating coffee machines, and even identifying window treatments, Hilton demonstrates its commitment to catering to the specific needs of its visually impaired guests. Additionally, users can explore hotel amenities like gyms, spas, bars, and restaurants with informed guidance, dramatically enhancing their overall experience.
The ease of access to these services is commendable. Guests can connect with assistance simply by selecting Hilton from the “Hotels” category within the Be My Eyes app’s “Service Directory.” This streamlined approach not only helps users find participating brands, such as the Waldorf Astoria and DoubleTree by Hilton, but also ensures that they can seek help without navigating complex systems. The real-time capability of the app significantly enriches the travel journey for guests who may have previously felt isolated or uncertain within the hotel environment.
This partnership is not an isolated effort. Hilton’s collaboration with Be My Eyes began in 2023, where it focused on training the app’s AI to better recognize hotel-related objects and help users navigate hotel rooms effectively. Furthermore, Hilton has gone the extra mile by training a specialized team of customer service representatives dedicated to assisting Be My Eyes users specifically, thus ensuring a high level of service consistency.
Mike Buckley, CEO of Be My Eyes, emphasizes the importance of this partnership in making travel and hospitality more inclusive. His statement about breaking down accessibility barriers perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the initiative, reflecting a growing recognition that travel should be an experience available to all, regardless of physical limitations.
Founded in 2015, Be My Eyes has already garnered a substantial user base of over 700,000 individuals globally, showcasing a significant demand for such services. The partnership with Hilton not only enhances the app’s visibility but also underscores the critical role of technology in fostering inclusivity in various sectors.
Hilton’s partnership with Be My Eyes represents a vital step forward in the accessibility landscape of the hospitality industry. By integrating innovative technologies with dedicated customer service efforts, Hilton is setting a commendable example of how businesses can embrace diversity and contribute to a more inclusive society, paving the way for a future where travel is truly accessible to everyone.