Check into the first iPhone Hotel

Davey Winder
Sunday, 12 October 2008 19:46

IT Industry - Market

In a typically clear iPhone interface manner, it displays a grid of icons that allow the guest to access the in-room dining and drinks menu where food can be ordered and even ingredients specified and special requests entered.

Then there is the valet icon to allow a car to be requested or your dry cleaning to be picked up.

And, of course, a house-keeping icon that toggles your do not disturb status and allows for the ordering of additional toiletries.

I rather like the virtual concierge service that brings a local attractions map, shopping guide and even the tee-times for the local golf course right into your hand.

Obviously, the iPhone also acts as the interface for setting a wake-up call, providing messages that you receive during your stay and even the ability to make another booking before you leave.

Hotel Evolution is provided as a Web Application which enables the hotel to avoid installation problems, no Jailbroken iPhone required here. Which is important when it needs to run on the guests own iPhone as well as the iTouch units provided by the hotel.

It also means that upgrades are simplified, along with budgets.

According to Matt Allard, president of the company behind Hotel Evolution, the cost works out to around USD $10 per room per month.

Even if they add a dollar a day onto your room charge, that's not bad for the hire of the device alone...