PPDS unveils content and app-streaming solution for hotels

PPDS has launched a hotel TV solution designed to deliver a seamless and secure casting and app-streaming experience.

The Philips Cast Server allows hotels of all sizes to offer guests additional choice without the need to switch to a casting network on their mobile device.

The single-unit rack-mounted device integrates into a hotel’s existing IP network to deliver a secure and private connection, allowing guests to cast content from sources such as Disney+, Prime and YouTube direct to their in-room TV.

Guests can pair their phone or other mobile device with the TV by scanning the QR code displayed on the TV screen, with no need to connect to an alternative Wi-Fi network.

The solution, which is customisable with hotel branding, is compatible with PPDS’s Chromecast-built-in Philips MediaSuite and recently launched Philips Hospitality TV 4500 Series.

The Philips Cast Server deploys PPDS’s free-of-charge CMND software and a simple PMS interface.

The cost-effective solution, is available on an initial five-year licence, with different tiers depending on the number of rooms in the hotel.

It also offers hoteliers access to a GDPR-compliant system that delivers statistics on the usage of cast applications – with all personal data removed.

Jan Van Hecke, global product manager for professional TV at PPDS, said: “As people continue to switch to sourcing their TV content from popular streaming platforms, it is vital hotels embrace that challenge and match those needs. But the experience has to be seamless.

“Philips Cast Server is so simple, anyone can use it. Open the camera, scan the QR code on your phone or tablet, and the pairing between TV and smart device is complete.

"Backed by features including customisation of screens and advanced casting analytics, Philips Cast Server is another game changer for the hotel industry.”