In an inspiring move towards inclusivity, Hilton Worldwide has announced a strategic alliance with Be My Eyes—a commendable platform that leverages AI technology and volunteer support to assist those with visual impairments. This partnership specifically aims to improve the travel experiences for blind and low-vision guests, reflecting a growing trend in the hospitality industry to prioritize accessibility.
At the core of this collaboration lies Be My Eyes’ AI-assisted features, enabling users to receive real-time visual assistance. In practical terms, this means that individuals with visual challenges can utilize the Be My Eyes app to connect with sighted volunteers who provide life-like assistance through video calls. This feature is not limited to merely serving needs in-person within hotel environments; rather, it includes help with numerous in-room functionalities. Guests can inquire about adjusting the temperature of their rooms, learn how to operate coffee machines, or seek help in identifying interior elements such as curtains and blinds.
Moreover, the program extends beyond room service, opening up opportunities for guests to explore hotel facilities. The customer support teams from Hilton are poised to assist guests in navigating various amenities, such as restaurants, gyms, and spas. By facilitating individualized support, this initiative underscores Hilton’s commitment to ensuring all guests have an enjoyable and stress-free experience during their stays.
Using the Be My Eyes app is straightforward for those requiring assistance. Guests can easily find Hilton among the participating hotels listed under the app’s “Service Directory.” The range of Hilton brands involved in this initiative—including the Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, DoubleTree by Hilton, and Hampton by Hilton—represents a significant portion of Hilton’s vast portfolio, thereby ensuring extensive accessibility.
This partnership builds upon Hilton’s earlier initiatives commenced in 2023, which involved refining the app’s AI capabilities to enable it to effectively recognize and navigate hotel furnishings. Following this technological enhancement, Hilton took another step by assembling a dedicated team of customer care specialists trained to assist Be My Eyes users with their specific needs.
Mike Buckley, CEO of Be My Eyes, expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential, highlighting its important role in dismantling accessibility barriers in travel and hospitality. This collaboration not only enhances user experience but sets a precedent for other hospitality entities to adopt inclusive measures for guests with disabilities.
Since its inception in 2015, Be My Eyes has garnered over 700,000 users worldwide, and with Hilton’s support, this figure may continue to rise. This innovative partnership represents a significant shift in the hospitality landscape, fostering a culture of inclusivity that ensures everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the journey of travel. As industries continually evolve, such collaborative efforts serve as critical reminders of the importance of accessibility in enhancing everyday experiences for all.