In order to activate this feature, go to our public Github page here.
You'll need an Android phone with at least 8.1. OS version (we recommend 12 and higher).
Make sure to download and then install the .apk file directly on your Android device.
Github page in mobile browser
Github page in regular browser
There are a few Hostme applications for mobile phones, the difference is explained below (left to right):
SMS communication app icon
Restaurant management app icon
Next, go to Admin panel -> Settings -> About restaurant and select the Android phone option from the dropdown menu.
You can also enable Android phone + Hostme SMS service.
If enabled, it will attempt to send the text messages through the paid SMS service system which will lead to additional SMS charges in case the Android app is not running in the background of the Android device.
App settings
Open the app on the phone and login with your Hostme credentials:
Choose your restaurant from the dropdown menu
Show caller ID is for the feature Who is calling
Send messages on behalf of - for Send and Receive SMS
(You can choose both in case you want to use Who is calling feature as well - check instruction "Who is calling?")
Tap Start service button. The app is now running.
Go to Reservations panel in Hostme.
Add a new reservation and make sure you added the phone number too.
Once you add the reservation, the client will receive the confirmation sms.
You will get a new SMS notification in your app (and your phone as well).
You will be able to see the details in the chat box with the client.
If you open the box, you can send additional messages and see the whole conversation with the client:
NOTE: If the SMS sent from the Android app is late for more than 5 minutes, Hostme SMS system will send the regular sms (delay time can be adjusted as per your request.)
In case messages are not getting sent (especially if the phone is Samsung), follow the next instruction to remove the app from battery optimization settings:
