In an effort to improve the travel experience for blind and low-vision guests, Hilton has announced a partnership with Be My Eyes, a technology platform offering artificial intelligence-powered visual assistance and live video support from sighted volunteers. This collaboration aims to make Hilton's hotels more accessible by providing personalized assistance to guests through the free Be My Eyes app.
Key Points
- Hilton partners with Be My Eyes to support blind and low-vision guests.
- Guests can access AI virtual assistance and live support via the Be My Eyes app.
- Services include in-room assistance and navigation of hotel amenities.
- Partnership enhances accessibility across Hilton Hotels in the U.S. and Canada.
- Dedicated customer care teams trained to assist Be My Eyes users.
Hilton's Commitment to Accessibility
Hilton, a global leader in hospitality, is taking significant steps to enhance accessibility for blind and low-vision travelers. By partnering with Be My Eyes, Hilton enables guests in the United States and Canada to access AI virtual assistance and receive personalized support from dedicated Hilton Reservations and Customer Care teams. These teams are specially trained to assist with various needs, such as adjusting in-room thermostats, operating coffee machines, identifying window coverings, and navigating hotel amenities such as bars, restaurants, gyms, and spas.
Guests can easily access these services through the free Be My Eyes app. By navigating to the platform's "Service Directory," selecting the "Hotels" category, and choosing the participating Hilton brand, travelers can connect with the support they need. Participating brands include Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, DoubleTree by Hilton, Hampton by Hilton, and others.
How the Be My Eyes App Enhances Travel
The Be My Eyes app leverages artificial intelligence and a network of sighted volunteers to provide visual assistance to blind and low-vision individuals. For travelers staying at Hilton Hotels, this means having access to real-time support for tasks that sighted guests might take for granted. Whether it's figuring out how to use in-room technology or finding the way to hotel facilities, the app ensures that all guests can enjoy a comfortable and independent stay.
The collaboration between Hilton and Be My Eyes began in 2023 when Hilton assisted in training the app's AI model to better recognize objects and navigate furniture within hotel rooms. Following this initial effort, Hilton expanded its involvement by developing a specialized team of customer care agents trained to support Be My Eyes users during their stays.
What This Means for Travelers
For blind and low-vision travelers, this partnership represents a significant advancement in Accessible Travel. It offers an added layer of independence and confidence when navigating unfamiliar environments. The ability to receive personalized assistance through a simple app enhances the overall travel experience and reduces potential frustrations.
This initiative also highlights Hilton's dedication to inclusivity and guest satisfaction. By investing in technology and training that directly benefits guests with visual impairments, Hilton sets a precedent in the hospitality industry for prioritizing accessibility.
Final Thoughts
Being legally blind myself I am thrilled to see Hilton taking proactive step to lead the industry in accessibility. What’s often forgotten by able-bodied individuals is that a minor inconfieve to them could be a major disaster for someone with any disability. The partnership with Be My Eyes not only enhances the experience for blind and low-vision travelers but also underscores the importance of inclusivity in the travel industry. Travelers planning to stay at Hilton properties in the United States and Canada can now look forward to a more accommodating and supportive environment. This collaboration is a meaningful stride towards making travel more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
On behalf of all of all the blind and low vision travelers out there I want to say thank you Hilton.
