Hyatt Helps Launch New Telephone Technology For Disabled

CHICAGO— With plans to install the technology in rooms throughout North America, Hyatt Hotels joined disability rights champion Jo Waldron in launching Able Planet’s new micro-technology providing access to telecommunications for people with hearing disabilities. The patent-pending technology, invented this past year by Waldron with technical guidance and testing by hearing veteran Dr. Joan Burleigh, is different from traditional hearing aid compatible technology with regards to performance, size and cost , among other benefits, according to the company. Hyatt has already installed the technology in almost 300 telephones at their Colorado hotel properties; Hyatt Regency Denver, Hyatt Regency Tech Center and Park Hyatt Beaver Creek. Hyatt is phasing in the Able Planet technology into their telephones, which will include the replacement of existing guestroom telephones during the normal course of business.