Mandarin Orchard Singapore Launches World's First "Second Screen" Solution for Hotels

Posted by Richard Kastelein in Breaking News on February 10, 2012  |  1 Comment More from this author  |    |  Follow Richard Kastelein on: Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | YouTube

Mandarin Orchard Singapore and StarHub today announced the launch of an advanced in-room Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) system connecting guests at all of the hotel’s 1,051 rooms to a host of conveniences, such as express check-out, concierge and dining services, access to movies-on-demand and 24 StarHub TV channels, etc. – all at the touch of a button.

From a tablet.

In addition to the system’s ease-of-use through a comprehensive electronic programme guide, StarHub also installed a “second screen” solution enabling resident guests to remotely access in-room services from hotel-issued iPad devices. Adding to the guest experience through "anytime, on-the-go" IPTV access from anywhere within hotel premises, the specially designed mobile device solution is connected full-time to the hotel's internal Wi-Fi network.

Using the iPad application, guests can navigate through IPTV via an on-screen remote control, view messages, select StarHub TV channels and movies-on-demand, as well as check real-time flight information. In the next phase of development, guests will also be able to browse current promotions at the hotel and The Mandarin Gallery, control the room ambience, and enjoy the facility of ordering in-room dining service, amongst other conveniences.

Mandarin Orchard is the first hotel to offer such an integrated IPTV solution.

"Singapore is a technology-savvy and service-centric country, with some of the largest hotels in the world. Each year, millions of business and leisure travellers come here to attend conventions, concerts, international festivals or simply for shopping or social visiting," said Kevin Lim, Head of Enterprise Business Group, StarHub.

"As Singapore’s leading info-communications service provider to the hospitality industry, StarHub is very pleased to work with Mandarin Orchard Singapore and set up the country’s first hotel in-room IPTV system with second-screen solution, that offers the convenience of a portable device for access to information and hotel services. This is truly a unique experience for guests of Mandarin Orchard Singapore, where technology is leveraged to raise the standard of services in the hospitality segment."

Commented Christoph Szymanski, Hotel Manager of Mandarin Orchard Singapore:

“True to the iconic status of this hotel and the Meritus brand, we are proud to mark yet again another milestone that sets a new benchmark for the hospitality industry in Singapore.“

"We are thrilled with the outcome of our strategic collaboration with StarHub on this project. The implementation of our integrated IPTV solution not only adds considerable value to the experience of our guests, it also increases the productivity levels of our staff – according us more resources to focus on other areas crucial to our ability to consistently deliver product and service excellence."

All rooms and suites at Mandarin Orchard Singapore are equipped with wireless connectivity which allows guests to use the second-screen to access hotel information and services. iPads are available for loan from Meritus Club Lounge for guest use. Guests also have the option to download and access the application on their personal iPad devices. Plans are underway to extend the second screen solution on Android-powered tablets.