Charter Signs Video, Internet Deal For Hotels

Charter Communications Inc. will be able to provide Internet and video services to hotels within its footprint under the terms of an agreement with Maximus Multimedia International, a Peoria, Ill.-based hospitality media network that delivers information and entertainment-on-demand systems.

The companies said the goal of the agreement is to provide travelers with the same media experience they receive at home.

"Hoteliers want to be able to serve their guests the highest quality of in-room entertainment available," said Mike Harding, president and chief executive officer of Maximus.

The two will create a bundle for hotels including Internet and video from Charter; and entertainment-on-demand from Maximus.

Last week, RCN Corporation, a leading provider of all-digital television, high-capacity data, and voice services to residential, business customers and service providers, announced a multi-year contract and service launch with Mandarin Oriental, Boston.

RCN's All-Digital and High Definition (HD) Cable TV service is available in 136 guestrooms and 12 luxury suites, as well as the condominiums, apartments and retail stores located within the hotel. Additionally, RCN is providing a dedicated data network connection to serve as the hotel's failsafe for Internet connectivity.