CityCenter’s High-tech Extravaganza

Rachel Wimberly -- Tradeshow Week, 10/3/2008 10:33:00 AM

When the $9 billion CityCenter opens in 2009, there will be a plethora of high-tech bells and whistles in the three on-site hotel properties: Aria Resort & Casino, Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas and the Harmon Hotel, Spa & Residences. 

CityCenter collaborated with tech provider Control14 to come up with as many ways as possible to automate just about everything in the hotels’ guest rooms. 

Bobby Baldwin, president and CEO of CityCenter, said, “Aria, Mandarin Oriental and The Harmon will be the first to incorporate the most sophisticated technological advances in the country to ensure the guest experience (surpasses) expectations.” 

Here are a few examples of what’s on tap:

• As guests approach their rooms or suites, it will recognize if it is their first time in the room and greet them as they enter. 

• Lights will turn on, curtains will open and the TV will go to a list of automatic controls for the guest to personalize.

• There will be one-touch controls of guest-room features, including lighting, room temperature, television and video systems, music, wake-up calls, draperies and requests for service. 

• All guest rooms will incorporate keyless locks, which will enable guests to unlock the door by flashing their key over the lock sensor. 

Besides the automated components, there will be wireless Internet service in every guest room that, according to the CityCenter, will be eight times faster than the average U.S. guest room today. 

And to keep everyone connected, CityCenter will have an antenna system that covers more than 14 million square feet. 

The CityCenter is a joint venture between MGM Mirage and Dubai World that will feature a 4,000-room gaming resort as well as 300,000 sq. ft. of exhibit and meeting space.