Owner: Hip Hotels
Agency: Isobar Mobile
| Content | 20/25 |
|---|---|
| Usability | 17/25 |
| Branding | 19/25 |
| Monetisation | 18/25 |
| Total | 74/100 |
The boutique hotels title has debuted on Windows Marketplace, interestingly it also has an iPhone app but its website speaks nothing of an Android version, with this bespoke app.
On first inspection the WP7 version is in keeping with its high production values maintained elsewhere. The app contains concise overviews, such as the design and features of the rooms of each hotel with reviews and high quality images of each venue.
It also provides information on how to connect users to each venue. Interestingly, this lead generation takes the form of a click-to-call function, there’s no email function, which is something I’ve not seen before.
I’m usually quick to criticise mobile websites and apps for omitting this function, given that this is the one unique aspect that such properties have over any other web platform. So, it must be said, kudos to Iosbar Mobile for including this feature.
The agency has also linked the app to include Pinterest, indicating that Hip Hotels knows its market here of typically wealthy individuals, or companies, that place a high value on aesthetics.
In a release documenting the launch of the app, the agency also claimed, “Connecting the app with Pinterest will allow us to gauge key data about how much traffic Pinterest actually drives to a website.” So this demonstrates some strategic thinking in that respect.
In terms of navigation, users can search by continent, country or city as well as mark their favourite venues, while a ‘platinum’ section denotes the most exclusive venues on offer.
For the high end traveller this will prove a welcome option but you have to wonder just how likely will they be to have a Windows Phone when I’d have thought the iPhone would be the device of choice for Hip Hotels’ target audience.
Other apps in this sector:
