13 June 2008

Harrah’s Operating Company has deployed Microsoft Surface at the Rio Hotel & Casino’s iBar in Las Vegas. Harrah’s is the first entertainment venue to deploy a suite of customised applications for Microsoft Surface.

The new implementation allows people at different Surface units to chat, view one another via video cameras, and take and send photos across the lounge. Customers can also create and order their own signature cocktails using the Surface-Harrah’s food and beverage application.

Customers can play games such as High Roller bowling, Dissed multiplayer pickup pinball, and a Last Call musical memory game. The Surface interface makes it easy for a whole group to play, and because the units are connected, suite leader boards give an even more competitive feel.

The Virtual Vegas Surface application allows guests to take a virtual walk down the Las Vegas strip, as well as get information on the latest events and attractions at all Harrah’s properties throughout the city.

“With Microsoft Surface, Harrah’s is designing new and exciting ways to engage our millions of existing customers as well as offering a new genre of guests innovative opportunities to discover the uninhibited excitement of our venues,” said Tim Stanley, Harrah’s CIO and senior vice president of innovation, gaming and technology. “This launch of Microsoft Surface into our business is another example of our next-generation interactive customer relationship management capabilities that aim to deliver personalised, interactive and immersive experiences for guests as they spend time at our properties.”

“People continue to be excited about the endless possibilities of Surface technology and how it can transform everyday scenarios, including the social and entertainment space,” said Pete Thompson, general manager for Microsoft Surface. “With this latest deployment we’re bringing some of those possibilities to life and showcasing the breadth of opportunities Microsoft Surface provides to innovative businesses like Harrah’s.”