Luxury hotels are embracing the future of wellness with the introduction of robotic massages, and the experience is surprisingly effective. The Lotte New York Palace Hotel in Midtown is leading the charge as the first property to offer this innovative service, with plans to expand to 200 more locations by the end of the year.
Unlike traditional massages, where a therapist meticulously attends to each part of your body, these robotic massages provide a different kind of experience—one that is more practical and efficient. The 30-minute automated service, priced at $75, is provided by Aescape, a brand founded by serial entrepreneur Eric Litman. By the end of 2025, Aescape aims to revolutionize the $5.6 trillion global wellness industry by bringing automation to an experience traditionally associated with human touch.
The robotic massage setup at the Lotte New York Palace features a sleek, futuristic design resembling a surgical robot. White robotic arms work over a navy blue massage table, while advanced sensors and tiny spotlights scan the body and deliver precise, coordinated movements. The experience is almost entirely contactless, with guests guided through the process via a tablet, eliminating the usual spa rituals of slipping under a blanket or exchanging pleasantries with a therapist.
As innovative as the technology is, there are some limitations. The robotic hands can’t replicate the nuanced touch of a human therapist, particularly when it comes to identifying and working on specific tension points. The massage is also limited to the back, and beloved hand massages are notably absent. However, the smooth, consistent pressure applied by the robot’s rounded appendages makes it a superior alternative to devices like the Theragun or even advanced massage chairs.
What makes this robotic massage particularly appealing is its efficiency. Aescape claims that their 30-minute session is equivalent to a 60-minute session with a human therapist, thanks to the robot’s ability to work symmetrically on both sides of the body with consistent pressure. The convenience of a shorter, effective treatment is especially attractive to busy travelers who might not have the time for a full spa experience.
Looking ahead, Aescape plans to enhance its service by allowing the robot to store and recall personalized data for repeat clients. This means that future sessions could be tailored to an individual’s specific preferences and needs, offering a level of consistency that is difficult to achieve with human therapists.
While robotic massages might not replace human touch entirely, they offer a practical solution for maintaining a wellness routine on the go. They are also a boon for hotels dealing with labor shortages in the spa industry, allowing for 24/7 service without the need for additional staff.
As this technology becomes more widespread, it’s likely we’ll see robotic massages in a variety of settings, from boutique hotels to airport lounges. With a starting price of $60 for 30 minutes at other locations, this service is not only innovative but also more affordable than traditional human massages at luxury hotels.
In the end, while the experience may not be as emotionally soothing as a human touch, the benefits and convenience of robotic massages make them a welcome addition to the wellness landscape. And yes, the robot’s hands are warm—adding a touch of lifelike comfort to the experience.
