The unit that holds the flat screen TV, which receives many channels in several different languages, is also loaded down with Internet radio, Bose stereo, and movies on demand. Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel can be used via an infrared keyboard. There's a built-in browser and email can be collected. Unfortunately, none of it works as quickly or effortlessly as a cheap laptop.
Although the system is billed as "one of the most advanced business and entertainment systems in Europe," we found the unit confusing to operate, Web connection was slow, there were frequent crashes requiring restarts, and picture quality was mediocre.
Keep in mind England is the same nation that gave the world the Rolls-Royce — expensive, lumbering, and with far more parts than it needs.
At the next IT overhaul, we suggest The Dorchester simply provide 1) a pre-loaded iPod nested in a Bose speaker, 2) wi-fi and a laptop for visitors who don't carry their own, and 3) a high-def TV that's simply a TV -- and free movies on demand.
