Yes, United Airlines allows and encourages you to "check" your bags digitally through the United app or website starting 24 hours before your flight. While you cannot physically hand over your suitcase through your phone, checking them online allows you to pay any applicable baggage fees in advance, often at a discounted rate compared to paying at the airport counter. Once you arrive at the airport, you can bypass the main check-in lines and use the "Bag Drop Shortcut" kiosks. You simply scan your digital boarding pass at the kiosk, print your luggage tags, and drop the bags with a United representative at a dedicated fast-track station. This process significantly reduces the time spent in the terminal and is particularly helpful during peak travel seasons. Note that there are some restrictions: for example, if you are checking oversized items like surfboards or if you have certain special service requests, you may still need to speak with a full-service agent. Additionally, for international flights, United may require you to have your passport verified at a kiosk or desk before your bag tags can be printed, even if you paid for the bags online.