Innovation

📺 LG Electronics USA announced on October 2025 in Denver, Colorado, a free firmware upgrade for their 2020-23 Pro:Centric Smart hospitality TV models, including US670H, US770H, UR770H, and STB-6500 smartbox, enabling Google Cast functionality. This upgrade allows guests to stream content privately and securely from Android or iOS devices. The update underscores LG's commitment to supporting previous-generation TVs, providing seamless in-room streaming without adding devices.

💻 Mirai Omnichannel offers expert management of Sarai, an AI agent for hotels. It ensures Sarai's success through continuous data updates, proactive monitoring, and detailed reporting. Mirai Omnichannel provides two services: self-service mode for full control or expert "turnkey" management for hotels lacking resources. For comprehensive communication management, Global Omnichannel Service handles all channels, enhancing customer interactions. Over 500 hotels use Mirai, with services including 24/7 contact center support in 10+ languages.

🛌 The Ascott Limited launches lyf, a new-generation brand merging co-living and hotel experiences with features like co-working lounges and event zones. B&B HOME introduces a long-stay concept blending home comfort with hotel efficiency and social initiatives. Hyatt's The StandardX offers minimalist design for young travelers. nhow Berlin's Gaming Rooms & Studio caters to gamers with high-performance setups. Novotel's La Suite at Parc des Princes combines hospitality with live sports. UMusic Hotels in Madrid integrates live music and hospitality in a historic venue.

🏨 Six best applications in the Concept On the Move category of the Hospitality Awards' 25th edition. Finalists and winners to be revealed on November 25th. Stay tuned for the ceremony!

🏆 November 25th, at the 25th edition of the Hospitality Awards, six top applications in the Best Innovative Brand Concept category will be revealed. The event celebrates the most committed, innovative, and impactful players in the hospitality industry.

🗺️ OpenAI launched ChatGPT Atlas on Tuesday. Atlas is a new AI web browser featuring "Agent Mode," which allows the AI to perform tasks like booking travel arrangements on behalf of users. CEO Sam Altman highlighted its design as an AI-powered browser centered around ChatGPT, enhancing how users search and interact online. Adam Fry, product lead, demonstrated its functionality to perform actions such as making reservations, booking flights, or even editing documents.

📚 Overwhelmed by AI? Discover over 50 free courses spanning beginner to advanced levels, 100+ explainer video tutorials, and 20+ free eBooks, playbooks, and whitepapers. Enhance your knowledge with recommended YouTube channels, podcasts, and blogs. This curated online resource aims to guide and inspire those who feel anxious about AI's rapid evolution. As we approach 2026, equip yourself with the skills and insights necessary to navigate the future of AI confidently.

🌐 In early 2026, a transformed travel sector will emerge, with AI reshaping operations and marketing. Google’s rule change led to an 88% drop in site visitors, impacting companies like Reddit (-15% stock, $5 billion market cap loss) and Monday.com (-40% stock in 30 days). Executives like those at Label Sessions emphasize achieving more in 100 days through Influence, Focus, and Foresight. Travel leaders must pivot strategies or risk obsolescence amidst rapid industry changes.

📲 Booking.com has launched AI tools, Smart Messenger and Auto-Reply, to improve partner-to-guest communication. The tools are live globally, with Smart Messenger available in the US, UK, New Zealand, and Australia. Early trials showed a 73% increase in partner satisfaction. AI Trip Support is available in 10 countries, providing 24/7 customer support. AI Rental Helper and Flight Search Summaries are also introduced. With 89% of consumers interested in AI for travel planning, these tools meet growing demand.