Gogo launches in-air multimedia platform
July 18, 2011
By Sanjeev Bhavnani
Airline Internet access specialist Gogo is to launch a new, in-air multimedia platform that will extend the company beyond Internet connectivity to offer passengers exclusive access to online services that include real-time travel information, destination content, news and information, exclusive shopping deals and social network integration. The platform will also give airlines the opportunity to offer passengers access to the latest movies and TV shows through Gogo’s new streaming video product.
The platform will be accessible by passengers via their own Web-enabled device on any aircraft equipped with Gogo WiFi Internet service. The new site will also be customisable to allow better branding opportunities for Gogo’s airline partners. The new platform will be available beginning in the fourth quarter of 2011.
“This is the convergence of in-flight connectivity and entertainment. When we first started offering WiFi connectivity, it became clear to us that we could offer travellers so much more to enhance their travel experience,” said Ash ElDifrawi, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Gogo. “Today, travellers depend on Gogo to keep them connected in air and, while connectivity remains at the heart of our business, we are thrilled to offer travellers this new form of entertainment at 30,000 feet.”
Gogo has begun rolling out some of these new features including a new partnership with Gilt Groupe. Gogo’s video service will also allow travellers to rent movies and TV shows for viewing in air. Gogo currently has an agreement with major Hollywood studios and will feature recently released movies and hit TV shows.