In Cupertino, California: a robot provides hotel room service

Researchers from Oxford believe that around half of American jobs could be replaced by robots (Source: Oxford study). The service industry is the sector that will be the most affected by the automation of jobs.

Since August 20^th 2014, the Aloft hotel, located near Apple headquarters in Cupertino, has decided to overhaul its personnel. Rather than employing other humans, the team has been joined by a robot called A.L.O., who can move down the halls, take the lifts and even answer the telephone. It provides room service and can deliver everything the customer wants. It can even take on a number of tasks, prioritising them by their importance.

With a bow tie (printed), it is reminiscent of butlers in fancy hotels, or “cool concierge” as some younger clients have named it. “Technology isn’t there to replace people, especially in the hotel industry,” said Brian McGuinness, the brand’s director. This robot offers an exceptional, quick, personal service. A.L.O is a version of SaviOne, the first creation from Savioke, a business specialised in robotics.

The New York Times, like le Figaro, have published articles about this avant-garde maitre d’hotel. Online magazine Forbes Life highlighted the innovative nature of A.L.O. If the experiment is successful, other cyber-butlers could be introduced in the company’s other establishments.

Practical information:
Aloft Cupertino
10165 North De Anza Boulevard
Cupertino
California