Innovation - 10 Minutes News for Hoteliers - Page 331

4 min

World’s largest visa application to…

📅 Dubai, April 2025: The world’s largest Visa Application Centre, run by VFS Global, has opened in Dubai’s Wafi City, serving 37 governments with over 200 counters. The facility spans nearly 150,000 square feet and can process up to 10,000 visa applications daily, with support from over 400 staff of 25 nationalities. Featuring tech-enabled kiosks, premium lounges, and advanced AI systems, the centre aligns with Dubai’s strategy for global mobility and community-focused innovation.

1 min

The majority of travellers let algorithms…

📰 AI is revolutionizing travel with 62% of trips planned after online content interaction and 75% influenced by social media. Andrew Harrison-Chinn, CMO of Dragonpass, highlights AI's role in using search data and engagement to predict traveler behavior. Dragonpass, serving over 40 million worldwide, offers personalized travel perks at 1,400+ airport lounges. They leverage digital interactions like Google searches and TikTok likes to enhance travel experiences, transforming journeys with tailor-made perks and intelligent algorithms.

WEX adopts Sabre Direct Pay

💳 Sabre Corporation partners with WEX to enhance payment solutions for travel agencies using virtual card technology. Sabre Direct Pay users in 210 countries and 20 currencies will benefit from improved payment efficiency, security, and fraud detection. The partnership aims at streamlining transactions across borders, simplifying currency management, and empowering travel intermediaries with flexible payment solutions. As WEX collaborates with eight of the top 10 online travel agencies, this move signifies a shift towards integrated travel payment systems.

2 min

Secret Atlas unveils new brand design

🌎 Secret Atlas has unveiled a new brand identity and website for the 2025 Arctic cruise season. Designed by Nick Steyn of Anew, the London-based branding agency, in collaboration with SO Creative, the website offers an improved booking system and features an earthy color palette. The rebrand emphasizes the "big adventure, small footprint" ethos of Secret Atlas's small-group cruises. The site includes an Explorer’s Handbook and highlights team members for a personalized experience.

RightRez: From flight automation to fintech…

✈️ In February 2025, Mize acquired RightRez, a leader in air travel automation, led by CEO Maria von Foerster. This acquisition integrates RightRez’s AI-powered tools for predictive fare availability and ticketing optimization with Mize’s fintech capabilities, including dynamic pricing and payment orchestration. RightRez's new identity and platform enhancements reinforce a unified travel tech ecosystem. The combined teams aim to expand into new areas like cruise and corporate travel, enhancing the traveler experience with advanced features and streamlined processes.

Revenue Analytics rolls out AI-powered…

📈 Revenue Analytics launched the N2Pricing Commercial Suite in 2025 to enhance hotel revenue management. The suite's AI Report Generator streamlines insight extraction, saving time for revenue managers. It automatically generates reports from key data, allowing for tailored analysis. New features include the Health Scorecard and Extended Stay Rate Management. CEO Bill Brewster emphasizes strategic communication and leadership impact. Further innovations are planned for 2025 to enhance platform capabilities and support hospitality leaders.

2 min

New mobile WiFi solution keeps airport…

🚀 Airports and airlines can now benefit from SITA MIFI, a new mobile Wi-Fi service providing fast and secure connectivity for air transport. Launched worldwide, it offers flexible solutions for tarmacs, cargo areas, and emergencies, addressing challenges like bandwidth limits and system outages. SITA MIFI supports 4G and 5G, includes satellite capabilities, and enhances security with SSE technologies. It reduces costs and speeds up deployment, ensuring smoother operations with 24/7 managed support.

1 min

Former Expedia, Apple reps invest in travel…

📶 French travel eSIM provider Kolet raised $10 million in Series A funding led by Daphni, with participation from former Expedia CEO Peter Kern and ex-Apple VP Jon Gieselman. Founded in 2024, Kolet partners with airlines like Air France and KLM. The funding includes €1 million from Bpifrance to enhance its app and eSIM ease of use. Kolet plans to hire 10 more employees over 12 months. The eSIM offers affordable connectivity in 190+ countries.

3 min

Brian Wallunas Joins Ascent Hospitality Management as CTO

💻 Maestro PMS will present new updates at HITEC North America 2025, from June 16-19 at Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis. Booth #2411 will feature enhanced systems like GuestXMS with WhatsApp integration, unique Silverware POS integration, and a revamped Spa Management module. Attendees will preview Maestro Touch, a next-gen interface enhancing mobile usability. New front desk features increase efficiency with document uploads and rate management. Maestro continues to innovate for independent hoteliers, enhancing guest and staff experiences.

3 min

Palona Launches Restaurant AI, Expands

💻 Maestro PMS is showcasing its latest technology at HITEC North America 2025, June 16-19, at Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis. Key exhibits include GuestXMS for two-way messaging, MezzoPay integrated with Silverware POS, and the new Maestro Touch interface. Enhanced features are designed to improve operational efficiency, guest communication, and personalization. Visit Booth #2411 for more details.

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