No - guests do not need to download anything to use NextMe. Everything is handled through SMS text message, so guests can join and track their place in line from any phone.
When to Use This Article
You want to confirm whether guests need an app or account to join your waitlist
A guest is asking how they will receive updates about their place in line
You are evaluating NextMe and want to understand the guest experience
How the Guest Experience Works
When a guest joins your waitlist - either added by staff or through Self Check-in - NextMe communicates with them entirely through SMS text message. No app download, no account creation, no login required.
Here is what a typical guest experience looks like:
Guest joins the waitlist (via staff or Self Check-in form).
Guest receives an SMS confirmation with their position in line.
When it is their turn, guest receives a ready notification via SMS.
Guest can reply to confirm (1), cancel (9), or request more time (3, if enabled) - all by text.
If your Virtual Waiting Room is enabled, the SMS can include a link to a web page where guests can track their position in real time - no app required.
You can customize all notification messages from your Notification Settings.
FAQ
Do guests need a smartphone?
No. Guests only need a mobile phone that can receive SMS text messages. A smartphone is not required, though guests with smartphones can also open the Virtual Waiting Room link in their browser if that feature is enabled.
Do guests need to create an account or sign in?
No. Guests do not create accounts or log in. Their experience is entirely through text message - no credentials, no profile, no app.
What if a guest doesn't have a phone number?
NextMe's guest communication is built on SMS, so a valid phone number is required for text notifications. If a guest does not have one, staff can still add them to the waitlist manually - they just won't receive automated SMS updates.
Can guests join the waitlist themselves without staff help?
Yes - if you have Self Check-in enabled. Guests open your Self Check-in link or scan a QR code, fill out a short form in their browser, and join the waitlist on their own. No app download required.
Can guests receive messages if they have an international phone number?
Yes. NextMe supports SMS to international numbers. Note that some countries limit the ability for guests to reply by text. See Can I send text messages to international phone numbers? for details.
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