TECHNOLOGY
The Graduate Hotel in Oxford , Mississippi
MAKING AN
IMPRESSION
IN-ROOM TECHNOLOGY IS GOING BEYOND SUPER-FAST WIFI . BUT IS IT NECESSARY ?
Contributed by JULIANA SHALLCROSS
When it comes to in-room technology , amenities like cable TV , on-demand movies and iPod docks are practically ancient relics . Today ’ s guests expect just one thing from their hotel room — speedy and reliable WiFi so they can watch their favorite TV shows and movies , order food delivery and update their friends on social media – from their smartphone , laptop or both .
On top of the streaming devices , integrated mobile apps and keyless entry that have become en vogue , you can now throw robots and artificial intelligence into the mix .
At the Westin Buffalo in New York , Chip and Alexa help with guest requests . Chip , a robotic butler , can hand-deliver small items to a guest ’ s room while Alexa , Amazon ’ s virtual personal assistant called up through an Echo device , can give guests suggestions on what to do around town .
“ It ’ s an easy , fun way for guests to request services , get recommendations without the hassle of picking up a telephone ,” says General Manager Tom Long , who notes that the virtual interactions integrate with the hotel ’ s existing software programs and human staffers ( yes , they still have those ).
Hilton Hotels recently unveiled “ Five Feet to Fitness ” guest rooms equipped with workout machines ( including an intimidating-looking cardio bike ) and a digital “ fitness kiosk ” loaded with more than 200 workout videos . RLHC is rolling out Apple TVs in its Hotel RL guest rooms and allowing guests to check themselves in via iPads in the lobbies .
PART OF THE EXPERIENCE Hyatt Hotels has evolved its World of Hyatt app beyond bookings and property information to enable guests to stream their own content to the guest room TV . Guests can text with the staff , as well as request items to their room and use keyless entry , all through the app . “ We really view personal devices as part of the travel experience . It is your stay companion ,” says Jeff Bzdawka , Hyatt ’ s senior vice president of global hotel technology , stressing the importance of an integrated
A shower speaker from Graduate Hotels
46 hotelsmag . com September 2017