Hotel News Now’s Tech Impact Report each month features a news roundup from the hotel technology sector. Subscribe to the free monthly report here.
Tech investors embracing 3D-printed hotels
Some prominent tech investors, including Uber co-founder Travis Kalanick, are backing a 3D-printed hotel concept, according to a report from The Financial Times. The company, Habitas, promises to 3D print hotel rooms that are then shipped, mirroring current modular construction practices, which is expected to complete a property within six to nine months, according to co-founder Oliver Ripley.
Habitas officials plan to have eight properties open across the globe by the end of 2020.
Panic buttons face security flaws
The hotel industry has made a widespread push to get security alarm devices in the hands of housekeepers, but Fast Company reports adoption has been hampered by “the spread of low-qualify versions of the technology that pose significant privacy and security risks to the people who carry them.”
“Weak password protections and a lack of encryption leave users vulnerable to cyberattacks, which could render the devices unusable—or, worse, be used to invade hotel employees’ privacy,” the news outlet notes.
Atari hotels promise look at future, history of gaming
Real estate developer True North Studio and GSD group have plans to build eight Atari-branded hotels across the U.S., including the first in Phoenix expected to break ground in mid-2020, The Verge reports.
Not surprisingly, gaming and tech are at the core of the Atari hotels’ offering to guests.
“The ‘video game-themed destination’ will offer gaming playgrounds that include VR and AR games, and some locations will have venues and studios to accommodate e-sports events,” the news outlet report.
Compiled by Sean McCracken.