Robots: The Next Generation of Hoteliers

As an industry thought leader, Hotel ICON has been experimenting with artificial intelligence and automation and currently has two robots on staff: Jeeves, a new autonomous delivery robot by Konica Minolta who will be stationed at the ninth floor bar until January, and an Intellibot vacuum robot by Diversey, who has recently joined the Housekeeping team.

Using advanced sensors and preprogrammed collision-avoidance algorithm, Jeeves is able to swiftly and safely cruise around bar and lounge, while drinks are stored in his interior compartment. As one of the first robots of its kind, Jeeves has also been tasked to interact with students of various ages who tour the hotel as part of their academic curriculum, and has become well versed in Hotel ICON’s warm hospitality, often using phrases like “Enjoy your day”.

After the lights go out on spectacular events in the Silverbox Ballroom, the Intellibot AEROBOT 1850 vacuum begins its hands-free cleaning of both the carpets and the air, minimizing dust and giving feedback on any issues or maintenance needs with a remote diagnostics and wireless reporting system. The Intellibot will also be experimenting with vacuuming carpeted surfaces in the hotel’s guest rooms, clubs and restaurants over the next 6 weeks.

Aiming to continuously redefine the meaning of hospitality through innovative research, Hotel ICON plans to share the unique insights gained from working with AI and robotics with the global hotel industry in the months to come.