Microsoft Surface does live table top dance in Las Vegas

Stephen Withers
Thursday, 12 June 2008 05:21

Your IT - Home IT

Microsoft's Surface multitouch tabletop computers have made a dazzling debut amongst the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. The first venue to see the new consumer oriented devices will be a Flamingo Road lounge.

The iBar at the Rio All Suite Hotel & Casino on W Flamingo Road about a mile for the Strip is the first Harrah's property to feature the Surface.

Harrah's was one of Microsoft's original Surface partners. The company has created its own suite of applications for the tabletop computer, including play-for-fun games, cocktail ordering, video chat between Surfaces, and online videos.

The iBar is also providing a customised version of Microsoft's virtual concierge application.

"At Harrah's we are continually working to advance our innovation agenda and create unique, compelling and innovative guest experiences and unparalleled guest service," said Tim Stanley, Harrah’s CIO and senior vice president of innovation, gaming and technology.

"With Microsoft Surface, Harrah's is designing new and exciting ways to engage our millions of existing customers as well as offering a new genre of guests innovative opportunities to discover the uninhibited excitement of our venues."

The first commercial use of Surface took place in April, when AT&T introduced it to stores in New York City, Atlanta, San Antonio and the San Francisco area. Applications allow customers to get information about a device simply by placing it on the Surface, and call up coverage maps.