Why hotels struggle with mobile connectivity

Poor coverage in your hotel? Here's how to fix it

You probably recognise it: a guest wants to start a video conference or open an app, but the mobile signal falters. Or even worse: the guest has to walk outside to send a message. Many hoteliers are unaware how big a problem this is. They invest in fast Wi-Fi, but forget that most guests prefer to use their own, secure mobile network. And here's the rub: modern hotels in particular, with well-insulated facades and lots of glass, increasingly block those mobile signals.

"The problem is caused by the way modern buildings are insulated," explains Cynthia van Vroenhoven, Business Developer at WAVETHRU (part of AGC Glass Europe). "The metal coatings in glass and facades create a so-called 'Faraday effect'. As a result, 4G and 5G signals hardly get in. The newer the hotel, the bigger the problem."

Why Wi-Fi is not a conclusive solution

Many hoteliers think wifi is the solution. But wifi networks get overloaded quickly, especially when many guests are video calling or sending large files at the same time. Moreover, public wifi is often insecure. "It is much safer to call and internet through your own provider," says Van Vroenhoven. "Major telecom providers even recommend using your mobile network in preference to public wifi."

Moreover, making calls over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) does not always work flawlessly by a long shot. "Wifi signals are meant for data traffic, not for voice transmission," Van Vroenhoven explains. "Especially in a hotel, where many people are calling and streaming at the same time, the network quickly gets overloaded. That leads to guest frustration and ultimately lower guest satisfaction."

Roadmap for solving connectivity problems

Fortunately, there is a simple and sustainable solution to connectivity problems: WAVETHRU. This is an innovative technology that processes glass so that mobile signals can indeed pass through it. And the great thing is: it works on all types of glass, with no extra equipment or maintenance required.

Step 1: identify the problem

Many hoteliers do not realise that their hotel has a connectivity problem. Look realistically: do your guests always, everywhere in the hotel have good coverage?

Step 2: request a free audit

WAVETHRU offers a free measurement. Using special equipment, we measure where the problem areas are both inside and outside the hotel. This gives you instant insight into where and why mobile reception is deficient.

Step 3: treatment of the glass

WAVETHRU can treat existing and new glass, for example in new construction or renovation, making it directly suitable for mobile signals. The glass is treated with a laser surface treatment. The process is simple and once applied, no maintenance is required.  

Step 4: immediate effect and lasting benefits

Once the glass is treated, mobile signals can enter without obstruction. That means: better connectivity, lower Wi-Fi load and increased guest satisfaction.

What does good mobile connectivity deliver?

A good mobile signal throughout the hotel is not only convenient, but also has tangible benefits. Think, for example, of higher guest satisfaction. "Guests can call, stream and work effortlessly without frustration," Van Vroenhoven stresses. "In addition, guests can safely use their own network instead of unsafe, public Wi-Fi networks. Moreover, less load on Wi-Fi reduces the need for expensive upgrades. And you are prepared for the future; 5G is in fact in full swing, but is even harder to get through windows than 4G." WAVETHRU ensures that hotels remain optimally connected in the future. 

Proven success

That WAVETHRU works has now been proven in several sectors. "We recently treated the new headquarters of Van Mossel Automotive Group," says Van Vroenhoven. "The technology has also been successfully applied at elderly care facilities, office buildings and catering establishments." Hotels are the next logical step: first talks with hotels are already in progress.

Future-proof building: glass and connectivity go hand in hand

The role of glass in the hotel industry continues to grow. Hotels are increasingly opting for lots of glass in their facades, for a light and open look. But the more glass, the bigger the problem with mobile signals. Van Vroenhoven: "We see that sustainability and hospitality are becoming increasingly important in the hotel industry. WAVETHRU fits perfectly into this strategy: it is a one-off, maintenance-free solution that contributes to a hassle-free and connected experience for hotel guests."