Hilton Hotels to get high-speed access
The hotel chain strikes a deal with CAIS Internet to offer high-speed Internet access in Hilton Hotels in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The deal is the latest example of how high-speed Net access is going mainstream. Hotels are a prime market because of the business travelers they attract. Some gyms also are, with many guests looking to surf the Web while they work out.
CAIS's so-called Internet OverVoice technology lets users connect to the Net at speeds of up to 10 mbps, and allows them to talk on the same phone line. This type of technology, which is expected to cost Hilton customers less than $10 per day, is becoming increasingly commonplace.
By year-end, Hilton expects to offer the high-speed access at its hotels systemwide. Installation will begin with larger-city Hilton hotels and will follow in smaller ones.
"Connectivity to the Internet is critical to functioning in the business world today," Robert Dirks, senior vice president of marketing for Hilton Hotels, said in a statement. It will help customers "be more efficient while traveling."
A year ago, Microsoft said it would team up with other technology companies to help wire hotels with high-speed Net access. Hilton and Unisys previously have announced a pilot program to offer interactive services and entertainment to hotel guests.