21.05.2025
Hotel TV Technology in 2025: Features, Trends & Strategy
Hotel TVs in 2025 are no longer just for watching channels — powerful tools for guest engagement, upselling, and service delivery.
What You Need to Know About Hotel TV Technology in 2025
If you think hotel TVs are just for channel surfing, think again. In 2025, your in-room TV has the potential to be a much more dynamic guest engagement hub, a revenue channel, and a seamless part of your digital guest journey. But how do you cut through the jargon and make the right decisions?
Over the years, I've helped hotels understand what works and what doesn't regarding in-room tech. Here's a straightforward look at what you should know about hotel TV systems today, from common myths to the real opportunities.
1. Hotel TVs aren't the same as home TVs
They may look identical, but inside, hotel TVs are built for heavy daily use, centralized control, and integration with your other systems. They also come with proper commercial warranties and support. Skip the consumer models, which are not built for this game.
2. Regular TVs can cost you more than you think
Yes, buying consumer TVs might save you upfront. But you'll spend more time and support when they fail, don't support basic features like secure streaming, or require clunky workarounds for software updates. A hospitality-grade solution pays off in reliability and peace of mind.
3. Your TV can become a revenue stream
In-room screens aren't just for entertainment anymore. With the right platform, you can let guests order room service, book spa treatments, or upgrade rooms all through the TV. It's a sales channel that works quietly in the background, without pressure.
4. Casting is now expected, not optional
Guests don't want to search through cable channels. They want to stream their own content at home, such as Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify. Modern hotel systems let them do that securely and effortlessly, without mixing up rooms or saving personal data after check-out.
5. You don't have to rip out old TVs to go smart
If your current screens still work, could you add casting and Smart features with a set-top box or casting device? It's a smart way to modernize without replacing your entire fleet. I've seen many hotels extend the life of their hardware this way, and guests won't notice the difference.
6. Wi-Fi is enough. Ethernet is ideal, but not mandatory
We often get asked if Smart TV setups require Ethernet. It helps, but it's not essential. With strong Wi-Fi, you can deliver a smooth guest experience. What matters most is stable, well-managed connectivity.
7. One screen, many touchpoints
A TV can welcome guests, promote your restaurant, take room service orders, and let guests stream their favorite series. It's an extension of your brand. However, it only works if the system running it is flexible, guest-friendly, and integrated with the rest of your tech.
8. Real-time updates save time and stress
Have you ever had to change information in 50 rooms manually? With the right content system, you update once, and it syncs across all devices, TVs, apps, and tablets. Your team will thank you for that operational efficiency.
9. Show offers where guests can see them
Want to tell guests about a happy hour, a spa deal, or tonight's dinner special? Could you put it on the TV screen? With the correct setup, you can schedule promos to pop up at the perfect moment, like right after check-in or before dinner, so they feel timely and valuable, not pushy.
10. Set yourself up for tomorrow, not just today
Tech changes fast, and your TV system should keep up. Choose a setup that gets regular updates, works with future devices, and comes with a team that helps you upgrade when you're ready without starting from scratch every few years.
A hotel TV system should do more than turn on and show a channel. It should speak your brand, serve your guests, and support your team. Whether upgrading old hardware, adding new features, or just planning the following steps, ensure your TV setup works as hard as the rest of your tech stack.
When you get this right, the TV stops being a screen on the wall and becomes a platform for guest experiences.
It’s also worth noting that while major hospitality TV vendors, Samsung and LG, have made strides in adopting popular streaming apps like Netflix and YouTube, their platforms still lag in supporting a broader range of content providers. Many frequently used entertainment and lifestyle apps are only gradually being introduced into their app stores and operating systems, and the same delay applies to casting technology. Native support for Google Cast and Apple AirPlay has only started appearing in LG and Samsung hospitality TVs with the 2025 model year.
Would you be ready to See It in Action?
Let's talk if you're considering upgrading your hotel TV experience or would like to explore how an integrated in-room system can drive revenue and guest satisfaction.
Book a free demo with Hoteza and discover how our TV, casting, and guest engagement solutions can turn every screen into a powerful service and sales tool.
Make your TVs work harder, not your team.