Augmented reality and Virtual reality

1. A/R vs V/R 

"Augmented reality (AR) is a live direct or indirect view of a physical, real-world environment whose elements are augmented by computer-generated sensory input such as sound, video, graphics or GPS data" (Wikipedia)

       

• Exploration of rooms or areas

• Technology very closed to the reality

• Being informed about a destination or have more detail about features

• Play a game with the sensation to be in the game (for example have the dinosaur in the room)

"Virtual reality is a computer technology that replicates an environment, real or imagined, and simulates a user's physical presence and environment in a way that allows the user to interact with it." (wikipedia)

      

• A three-dimensional, computer generated environment which can be explored and interacted with by a person.
• Can be applicated for medicine, architecture, sport, arts or entertainment
• Interact with people about 3D image to best the perception of reality
• Share experience with people

2. Are guests ready for A/R?

It could be difficult for guests to be aware about augmented reality because it is not very known and they prefer to use technology they are used to use. 

However, A/R can be a new area to differentiate hoteliers because people like also new technologies and are willing to learn. Firstly, hotels have to show to guests how it is working and how it could best their experience. 

Before their arrival, guests are able to walk in the hotel and see all the facilities in the same way as they were there. During the stay, guests could have an app to see the services and the way to go anywhere in the hotel. Hotel could best informed and communicated with guests. In the restaurant you can offer a  menu with 3d pictures. 

3. Is it a gimmick or a destination strategy?

• A destination strategy: as said before, A/R can improve the experience and the interaction with people. A/R is a good technology for hotels or restaurant but also for any types of industry. 

   

Holiday Inn World's first augmented reality hotel - the making off

Hospitality groups like Holiday inn but also Starwood, Marriott or Airbnb try to develop this technology to help people to better know the destination and place they want to go. It is really a differentiation strategy.

Accor develop Virtual reality with the glasses which allow people to walk in different hotel. Some flight companies, like Qantas Airways, choose the same area to be closer to people.