Demonstrating New iCon™ Mobile Concierge Device at HITEC
LodgeNet Interactive Corporation, the leading provider of media and connectivity solutions to the hospitality industry, announced the first implementation of Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs) based on the Intel® Atom™ processor at the Westin St. Francis, and also outlined its plans to integrate these devices with its hospitality systems. LodgeNet is demonstrating the iCon™ Mobile Concierge device at HITEC, and is planning to pilot the product in additional locations, as well as to develop further mobile services and applications for the hospitality industry.
Hoteliers are increasingly interested in implementing in-room technology capabilities that provide new in-room services to guests, and which can also generate operating efficiencies for their properties. These capabilities include interactive applications for in-room dining, spa booking, golf reservations, rewards programs and even automated in-room temperature and electricity controls. LodgeNet has been a leader in designing and implementing these applications through their interactive systems, and with today’s announcement, is extending access to a wide variety of new services through portable devices.
At HITEC, LodgeNet and Wiotel, with support from Intel, are demonstrating the first project supported by their new initiative, the iCon™ Internet Concierge. This innovative new MID solution is based on the Intel Atom processor and the software experience has been designed by Wiotel specifically for the hospitality industry. The iCon can be integrated with a property’s entertainment, guest access and property management systems, and allows the guest to order virtually any product or service available through the properties’ networks during their stay. The iCon is designed to function as a mobile concierge and can be used as a bedside communication device for guests or as a mobile control for use by property staff.
The companies are currently piloting the new solution at the Westin St. Francis, and anticipate rolling out additional pilots over the next two quarters. “The Westin St. Francis has a history of being first. Our guests expect the latest guest services innovation. LodgeNet and Wiotel offer us a logical way to leverage our IT investment to improve guest communications, create operational efficiencies, and add incremental revenue through enhanced guest service,” said Mr. Jon Kimball, general manger of the Westin St. Francis.
“LodgeNet is a leader in providing new interactive solutions to the industry. We are very pleased to have our Professional Solutions group work with Intel and Wiotel to integrate unique new technology solutions on Intel-based MIDs and access hospitality services through our platforms,” said Scott E. Young, President of Hospitality for LodgeNet. “We believe that the iCon™ Internet Concierge project will generate significant interest in our customer base, and are looking forward to working with Intel and Wiotel on next generation solutions in the future.”
“Mobile Internet Devices make it possible for people to access the Internet and travel-related content and services wherever you are,” said Brad Graff, director of new business initiatives in Intel’s Ultra Mobility Group. “We welcome Lodgenet’s interest in this category of devices and look forward to supporting them in their efforts to deploy Intel Atom processor-based MIDs in the hospitality market segment.”
“We are eager to collaborate with an innovator in the hospitality industry such as LodgeNet. We see endless opportunities through the combination of Intel-based MIDs and our software platform. The new iCon Mobile Concierge Device will help enable a variety of new and exciting services,” said Sameh Michaiel, president and CEO of Wiotel.
Source: LodgeNet
