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News >> Technology >>
Emirates unveils e-zone in business class lounge
By siliconindia
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Tuesday, 24 March 2009, 18:31 IST
Dubai: Emirates has unveiled e-zone, its interactive technology and entertainment center, located in the business class lounge at the recently opened Terminal 3 in Dubai International Airport.
Developed in association with Microsoft Gulf at the Dubai Innovation Lab, e-zone is suitable for all ages, featuring gaming from Xbox 360 and the latest Microsoft Surface computers. Microsoft Surface takes away the devices that stand in the way of intuitive computing, such as mice and keyboards, and gives people the chance to use a computer that's as natural as touch itself. Microsoft Surface is capable of recognizing objects placed on it. Digital cameras, wireless phones, even 'tagged' glasses are recognized and treated as objects of communication with the user.
"e-zone is an extremely innovative concept," said Neetan Chopra, Vice President - IT Strategy and Architecture Emirates. "Emirates has invested heavily to ensure that our passengers have access to the latest technologies for entertainment and communication. Onboard, this is evident in our multiple award winning ICE in-flight entertainment system and Aeromobile service. On the ground, the implementation of e-zone adds a unique layer to our service offering," Chopra added.
"The Emirates IT division worked alongside Microsoft Gulf and one of its key partners, Infusion Development, on the Dubai Innovation Lab to conceptualize this distinctive customer experience. The response from our Business Class passengers has been exceptionally positive throughout the trial phase, and we look forward to further technological advancements in the future."
Emirates, Microsoft Gulf and Infusion Development have developed several impressive applications for the three Microsoft Surface computers within the Business Class Lounge, these applications include; Attract, Destination Guide, Photo Album and Paint.
For the more adventurous, e-zone features a three-screen Xbox 360 Car Racing Simulator. With customized seating and life-like racing games, it provides a truly realistic driving experience.
A PENTApod with five Microsoft Xbox 360 gaming consoles has also been installed in e-zone, providing the latest child-friendly gaming software and helping to keep children entertained while waiting to board their flight.