Starwood and Classwave to use Bluetooth in new software
Starwood will utilize Classwave's Polyphony Server and Professional Services Group to deliver a suite of mobile data and voice services to its hotel guests and employees. These innovative applications, adapted specifically for the travel and lodging sector, will provide a new class of wireless service to hotel guests staying at any Starwood property worldwide. This strategic partnership evidences the global opportunity and value of Bluetooth wireless access in the hospitality marketplace.
Starwood is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchiser of hotels and resorts including the St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Sheraton, Westin, Four Points by Sheraton and W brands. Classwave Wireless is the market leading provider of Bluetooth Network Infrastructure (BTNI) solutions that "intelligently" manage and route personalized information to and from mobile Bluetooth devices.
The two companies expect to commence user trials, enabled by Classwave's Polyphony Server, in the summer of 2001.
"Today's announcement with Classwave reinforces our ongoing commitment to provide our customers with the ultimate guest experience by utilizing the latest innovations in technology," said Tom Conophy, Chief Technology Officer of Starwood Hotels & Resorts. "Working with a partner like Classwave will enable Starwood to deliver a new level of information and service to its guests and employees through emerging wireless technologies. We are confident that Classwave has both the talent and vision to usher in a new suite of applications that will enhance the guest experience and further improve our hotel operations."
Bluetooth wireless technology makes it possible to connect any portable and stationary communications device without a cable or line of sight. Hardware vendors are starting to ship a wide range of mobile Bluetooth-enabled devices, from mobile phones to laptops. Soon, the technology will appear in many consumer electronic devices including PDAs and MP3 players.
Vendors are also beginning to ship a new category of device called a Bluetooth Access Point, which enables users of Bluetooth devices to gain easy access to a local intranet, as well as Internet-based content. Classwave's Polyphony Server provides the intelligence for Bluetooth networks by managing the devices, media format and content delivery through the network access points and other wireless communication channels, including cellular networks.
"There are many exciting developments occurring for Bluetooth in vertical markets using public access points and location-based services. Bluetooth will offer Starwood a great way to provide guests with helpful guidance and information to make their stay more enjoyable," said Joyce Putscher, Director, Consumer and Converging Markets and Technologies Group, Cahners In-Stat Group.
Classwave's Polyphony Server routes personalized, location-sensitive content to and through mobile devices, access points and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. Utilizing the Polyphony Server's network management tools, dynamic directory services, session management, multi-level security and device rendering capabilities, an enterprise with a network of access points and mobile users can access the Internet and intranet, create ad hoc personal mobile networks and conduct m-commerce.
"We are pleased that a global market leader like Starwood has recognized the value in Classwave's technology and vision and has chosen us as their partner," said Tom Sweeney, President and CEO, Classwave. "Polyphony Server will enable Starwood to easily create new revenue streams and business models by delivering mobile personal networks for the dynamic delivery of content within their properties worldwide."
About Classwave Wireless
Classwave Wireless is a software developer of Bluetooth Network Infrastructure (BTNI) solutions that enable people to enjoy mobile personal networking with the next generation of wireless devices. Polyphony Server intelligently manages the content delivery and routing of location-aware data and voice services through mobile devices that utilize Bluetooth technology. Privately held, the company has operations based in Toronto, Canada and is expanding into San Diego and Europe. For more information, please visit www.classwave.com.
About Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 725 properties in 80 countries and 120,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. With internationally renowned brands, Starwood is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchiser of hotels and resorts including: St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Sheraton, Westin, Four Points by Sheraton, W brands, as well as Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit us at www.starwoodhotels.com.