UpMarket’s latest innovation isn’t just another feature, it’s a strategic upgrade that unifies guest communication and boosts efficiency for property managers. By introducing Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) for both our Communications Hub and our Guest App, we’re transforming UpMarket into the central hub for all guest interactions. Now you can respond faster, reduce operational workload, and deliver a more modern guest experience from one integrated system. In a world where over 80% of guests won’t bother downloading a one-off native app for a short stay, our web-based PWAs eliminate that friction. There’s no app store to visit, no worrying about device compatibility or storage, just instant, hassle-free access for both hosts and guests through the browser.

The result? Happier guests and far less stress for you as a host.

UpMarket Communications Hub PWA: Your Unified Inbox on Any Device

Our Communications Hub is the heart of UpMarket’s messaging system, unifying all your guest communications from various channels in one place. Now, with the new Comms Hub PWA, you can manage those conversations with the convenience of a native app on any device. The first time you log in to your UpMarket account on the web, you’ll see a prompt at the bottom-right corner of your screen inviting you to “Install UpMarket Comms Hub.” With one click, you can install the hub onto your phone or computer. (If you happen to miss that notification, just look to the top of your browser near the address bar for a small install icon – often a down-arrow or a “+” – and click it.) Once installed, the Comms Hub will launch from an icon on your home screen or desktop, just like any other app!

Why hosts will love it: The Comms Hub PWA puts all your guest messages at your fingertips. There’s no need to repeatedly log into the website or juggle multiple OTA platforms – simply tap the UpMarket app icon and jump straight into your unified inbox. You can also enable real-time notifications for new inquiries or guest messages, allowing you to respond faster just as you would with a native messaging app. Whether you’re on your computer or your phone, the Comms Hub provides a clean, focused interface for communication, ensuring you never miss an important message even when you’re on the go. It’s the ultimate convenience and peace of mind rolled into one.

The Communications Hub interface is also available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, so you can comfortably communicate with guests and team members across the globe!

For Hosts: Installing the Comms Hub PWA

1. Open UpMarket in your web browser: On your computer or mobile device, navigate to the UpMarket web app (use Chrome, Edge, or Safari for best results) and log in to your host account.

2. Look for the install prompt: After logging in, look for a small notification or icon that prompts you to install the app. On desktop browsers, this might appear as a button or down-arrow icon in the address bar. On mobile, you might see a banner along the bottom of the screen saying “Install App.”

3. Install the app: Click or tap the install prompt. If asked to confirm, choose the option to add “UpMarket Comms Hub” to your device. (If you don’t see any prompt, you can also install manually: on Chrome/Edge, open the browser menu and select “Install UpMarket Comms Hub”; on Safari for iOS, tap the Share button and then “Add to Home Screen.”)

4. Launch from your home screen: In a second or two, the Comms Hub PWA will be installed. You’ll find the new UpMarket app icon on your home screen (on mobile) or in your applications menu/Start Menu (on a computer). The next time you need to message a guest, just tap the icon to launch UpMarket in its own app window.

5. Enable notifications (optional): If your browser asks, allow notifications for UpMarket. This way, you’ll get real-time alerts for new guest messages, just like a native app, even when you’re not actively on the site.

You’re all set! Tap that new UpMarket icon any time and jump straight into your unified inbox. With real-time notifications and every channel in one place, you’ll shave minutes off every reply and keep guest satisfaction sky-high.

UpMarket Guest App PWA: A Personalized Concierge for Your Guests

We haven’t forgotten about your guests! UpMarket’s Guest App PWA is a guest-facing application that you, as a host, can easily create and share with your visitors. Think of it as a digital welcome book or personal concierge for your property, accessible right on your guest’s phone without any app store downloads. When a guest opens your property’s unique Guest App link for the first time, they’ll be prompted (via a small banner along the bottom of the screen) to “Install” or “Add to Home Screen.” With a single tap, the app installs to their device. An UpMarket icon labeled with your property’s name will then appear on their home screen, giving them one-touch access to all your property’s info and services. (If they skip the initial prompt, no problem! They can always use their browser’s menu to add the app to their home screen later.)

The Guest App PWA essentially hands your guests a custom travel app for your property. It behaves just like any other app on their phone, meaning your guests can simply tap an icon to find everything they need instead of digging through emails or printed guides. This ease of access not only makes your guests’ lives easier, but it also showcases you as a modern, thoughtful host who’s committed to providing a great experience.

Key Features of the Guest App

• Wi-Fi Access Details: No more hunting around for the Wi-Fi password. The app prominently displays your property’s Wi-Fi network name and password, so guests can get online instantly upon arrival.
  
• Emergency Contact Info: Provide essential phone numbers at a glance – whether it’s your direct line, your property management contact, or local emergency services. Guests will feel safer knowing that help is just a tap away if needed.
  
• House Guides & Instructions: Share your house manual, check-in/check-out procedures, appliance how-tos, and other important details in one convenient section. This ensures guests have all the information they need (like how to adjust the thermostat or where to find spare linens) right when they need it, without having to message you.
  
• Guest Services & Requests: List any extra services you offer – from airport pickups to mid-stay cleaning or equipment rentals. Guests can request these services directly through the app, making it easy for you to upsell amenities and ensuring they’re aware of everything you provide.
  
• Local Recommendations: Curate a list of local attractions, restaurants, and neighborhood highlights. Whether it’s the best café on the corner or an upcoming event in town, your guests will appreciate these insider tips. This not only enhances their stay but also reduces the common questions you have to answer.
  
• Direct Booking & Payments: The guest app isn’t just informational – it’s interactive! Guests can book additional services or even future stays through the app and pay securely on the spot. For example, if they love their current stay and want to extend a night or reserve your property again for next season, they can do it right from the app. It’s convenient for them and beneficial for you, streamlining transactions without the need for third-party booking platforms.

All of these features are packaged into your branded guest app, meaning your guests enjoy a professional, personalized digital experience. In short, it’s like giving them a concierge in their pocket for the duration of their stay!

For Guests: Installing the Guest App PWA

1. Open the Guest App link: Click the unique Guest App URL provided by your host (or scan the QR code, if they gave you one). It will open in your mobile browser (Chrome or Safari works best).
   
2. Accept the install prompt: When the page loads, look for a banner or popup at the bottom of the screen inviting you to “Add to Home Screen” or “Install App.” Tap that prompt. (If it doesn’t appear automatically, open your browser’s menu and select “Add to Home Screen.”)
   
3. Add the app to your home screen: Confirm the app name (you’ll typically see your host’s property name) and tap “Add.” In an instant, the Guest App PWA will install, no app store visit needed.
   
4. Find the new app icon: Look at your device’s home screen for the new icon. It will show the UpMarket logo with the property name beneath it, just like a regular app.
   
5. Enjoy one-tap access: Tap the icon to launch the guest app with all your host’s information readily available. (No login is required.) You now have quick, offline-friendly access to everything you need for your stay, from check-in details to local recommendations.

Pro Tip: Even if you choose not to install the app when first prompted, you can always add it later by using your browser’s menu (look for “Add to Home Screen” or a download icon in the browser toolbar). The process is just a couple of taps whenever you’re ready, and you’ll get the full benefits of the app whenever you do install it.

Power Your Property with UpMarket’s PWA Advantages

UpMarket’s new PWAs don’t just streamline communication – they offer real advantages for both hosts and guests. By adopting these “instant apps,” you’re removing barriers and creating a more engaging experience on both sides of the hospitality equation. Here are some of the key benefits:

• No App Store Needed: Progressive Web Apps remove the friction of traditional app downloads. You and your guests can install the app directly from the browser with one click, skipping app stores entirely. No one has to search the Apple or Android marketplace, manage extra login accounts, or worry about compatibility and storage space. It’s a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
  
• Fast & Always Up-to-Date: Because PWAs are lightweight by design, UpMarket’s apps load quickly and run smoothly, even on slower mobile networks. Plus, they automatically update to the latest version whenever the device is online. That means you and your guests will always have the newest features and bug fixes without ever needing to manually download updates.
  
• Real-Time Communication for Hosts: The Comms Hub PWA ensures you stay on top of guest communications in real time. You’ll receive instant notifications of new messages or inquiries (just like a native app), so you can reply promptly. Whether you’re at your desk or out in the field, you won’t miss a beat when a guest reaches out.
  
• Enhanced Guest Experience: For guests, having an easy, one-tap app interface greatly improves their experience. They don’t have to fumble with long email threads or printed instruction sheets—everything they need (Wi-Fi info, check-in instructions, house manual, local tips, etc.) is organized in an intuitive app format. This convenience makes your hospitality feel modern, personalized, and attentive.
  
• Improved Engagement & Upsells: Using the Guest App opens up new channels to engage with your guests during their stay. You can send them updates or special offers via the app (for example, a discount on a late check-out or a partner deal on a local tour). Guests who engage through your app are more likely to use your services, which can translate into additional revenue through upsells and even repeat bookings. It’s a win-win: guests enjoy extra perks, and you boost your income.
  
• Cross-Platform Convenience: Whether your guests use Android or iOS – and whether you manage your properties from a Windows PC or a Mac – UpMarket’s PWAs have you covered. They work on virtually any device with a modern web browser. Everyone gets a consistent, high-quality experience regardless of their device or operating system.

In essence, these PWAs integrate UpMarket even more deeply into your day-to-day workflow. Hosts can oversee and respond to everything in one place without technical hurdles, and guests enjoy a smooth, app-like journey from booking to check-out.

Bringing UpMarket to Your Fingertips

By introducing PWAs for both hosts and guests, we’re doubling down on convenience and accessibility for everyone using UpMarket. It’s all about making technology work for you in the most seamless way possible. Hosts can now run their business on-the-go without missing a beat, and guests receive top-notch service through a modern, mobile-friendly interface. This update is another big step in our mission to streamline operations and elevate the experience for both new and veteran UpMarket users.

Ready to streamline your messaging? Activate our new Avantio Unified Inbox integration and manage every guest conversation in one place. Prefer to level up your guest engagement? Connect your WhatsApp number to UpMarket and start sending branded, automated chat messages in just minutes. Our innovative AI technology not only improves guest satisfaction through personalized, efficient interactions but also boosts your operational efficiency by smartly automating routine tasks. Don’t miss the opportunity to lead in hospitality innovation.

Try our Live Demo: See the Virtual Concierge in action and discover how easily you can integrate these PWA features into your daily operations. Embrace the future of hospitality with UpMarket, where innovation meets guest satisfaction.