Australian cinema chain Hoyts has unveiled a new app exclusively for its Rewards loyalty members.

The app, which replaces the existing version, offers improved access to VIP offers, in-app purchasing, and push notifications for a more integrated user experience. It is now available for download on both Apple and Android devices.

Key features of the app include exclusive food and beverage deals, in-app purchasing of food and drinks (including Treat City locations), and the ability to set reward benefit milestones. Members can purchase movie tickets and store them within the app, browse current and upcoming movies, and securely save credit card details and Hoyts gift cards for quick transactions.

The app is part of Hoyts' ongoing digital strategy, which began last year with the launch of the new Hoyts website. The website has since won Gold for Best User Experience and Silver for Website Redesign at the global w3 Awards presented by the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts.

"We’re thrilled to launch the next evolution of the Hoyts app. Our mission is to continually improve the customer journey, making it easier for our guests to discover movies they love and access the best in-cinema deals. This new app is a key part of that mission, providing a more holistic, end-to-end experience for our Hoyts Rewards members,"said Adam Wrightson, Hoyts Director of Information Technology.

"The new app streamlines every step of a member's journey, from planning a movie outing to purchasing tickets. The addition of push notifications also ensures our guests are the first to hear about exclusive offers, new movie trailers, and ticket sales. With our website already recognised for its outstanding user experience, the app is a natural next step in delivering the best to our members."

The company said the app has been successfully piloted with select HoytsRewards members, with positive feedback and minimal requests for changes. Existing Hoyts app users will be prompted to update their app in the coming weeks.

The new Hoyts app launched in New Zealand last month and is now available to all Hoyts Rewards members across Australia.