14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is constantly looking for new partnerships to expand adoption of its new operating system and tablets, so a new agreement with the Royal Caribbean International shouldn’t come as a big surprise.
Today, Redmond has announced a new deal that includes a total of 40,000 Windows 8.1 tablets that would be provided to crew members in order to perform a number of tasks easier while on the go.
The company says that Quantum of the Seas is the first division that will get 8-inch Windows tablets designed by HEXA, with the rollout to begin in October and complete in December, when every single employee of the Royal Caribbean is expected to have their very own Windows 8.1 device to stay in touch with friends and family.
“The Royal Caribbean men and women who provide such great vacations are the real heroes of our fleet, and these gifts demonstrate our appreciation in a tangible way. This technology isn’t only about giving our guests a better vacation — it’s about giving our crew and their families a closer connection than we’ve ever been able to,” Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises, said.
All tablets will come with the standard services, including Bing and Skype, but also with a free copy of Office 365, that would enhance communication and collaboration.
Of course, Microsoft hasn’t missed the occasion to praise Windows 8.1 and emphasize that a tablet running this operating system is the perfect choice to stay close to family members and friends, but also to perform specific tasks easier.
“Royal Caribbean is using technology to transform experiences for guests and crew members, and we’re thrilled to partner with them on their journey. Microsoft cloud and mobile technologies are going to help Royal Caribbean crew members who represent so many countries around the world stay in touch with their family and friends,” said Jane Boulware, vice president of U.S. Windows Devices.
“With a tablet in hand, a father can attend a parent-teacher conference, a mother can review her son’s book report and friends can check each other’s Facebook posts.”
Probably the only surprising piece of news in today’s announcement is the fact that Microsoft isn’t offering a Surface tablet to the Royal Caribbean International crew, but instead goes for devices manufactured by a partner company. Needless to say, Surface units are by far more expensive, and this is most likely the reason for picking Windows tablets from a different company.