Marriott was recently in the news because of its request to the FCC for the permission to ban guests from using their own Wi-Fi networks. Following widespread criticism online the hotel chain decided to backtrack and clarify its position on the issue. The new service Marriott is testing will provide even more access to users rather than take something away from them. Marriott will reportedly allow guests to stream Netflix, Hulu and Pandora directly through the TV sets in their hotel rooms.
According to Bloomberg this service is currently being tested by Marriott at eight of its properties. The possibility exists that other properties might soon offer the same service if the initial response is good, but it isn’t known for sure right now whether this will be included as part of the room cost or whether guests will have to pay separately for the privilege.
Many guests would appreciate the ability to stream Netflix, Hulu and Pandora on the room TV using their personal accounts. For starters it would make catching up on content very easy and it will also eliminate the need to pay extra for on-demand movies.
If Marriott charges this as an additional service Bloomberg believes in that case the service providers might get a cut of the proceeds as well.
The report doesn’t mention at which properties the hotel chain is testing out the new service which appears to have gone intoo testing about a week ago.