The bustling streets of New York City now host a remarkable innovation at one of its iconic hotels. The Lotte New York Palace has introduced the Aescape robotic massage bed, offering guests an unprecedented wellness experience. In partnership with Lotte, Aescape, pronounced 'escape,' brings forth a fully automated AI massage machine designed to cater to individual needs with precision.
Aescape's journey to this point is a fascinating tale of perseverance and innovation. The robotic massage device emerged after seven years of development by a team of experts with backgrounds from tech giants like Amazon, Apple, and Uber. This advance in wellness technology employs a 3D computational model to create a deeply personalized massage experience. From general wellness to sports-specific therapies, the machine offers around 20 unique programs.
Joe Rose, the owner of the ila Only Spa at the Lotte New York Palace, emphasizes the shift towards wellness among travelers. "It’s clear that more people wish to maintain and increase their sense of wellbeing when traveling, and they’re looking for the resources available to support this when choosing hotels," he said. Adding Aescape's innovative approach to the spa's offerings aligns with the growing trend of wellness tourism, projected to reach $1.2 trillion by 2027.
Aspa treatment at the ila Only Spa starts at $60 for a 30-minute session, notably less than what one might pay for a human massage at the same establishment. For those worried about comfort, users change into workout-like apparel before the session begins. The machine’s heated arms adjust between flatter surfaces and pointed edges, depending on what area is being worked on. Adjustments can also be made to massage strength and background ambiance, ensuring a tailored experience.
The Lotte New York Palace’s decision to partner with Aescape represents more than just a novel service; it’s a nod to the future of wellness technology. Aescape has planned further expansions, including partnerships with high-end fitness centers like Equinox and other luxury hotels. They even have their sights set on corporate spaces, professional sports teams, and luxury residential buildings. After launching its early access program with Press Modern Massage in Union Square, the buzz around Aescape's tech has grown, leading to a significant waitlist of eager New Yorkers.
Eric Litman, Aescape's founder and CEO, speaks to the broader mission behind the innovation. "The Lotte New York Palace is iconic, maintaining its storied elegance while evolving to keep guests happy," he expressed. "We share a mission to bring customers and guests a wellness-forward experience designed to meet their needs. As a New York startup, we’re honored to make our hospitality debut at this landmark New York hotel." It's clear that both the hotel and Aescape view this partnership as a stepping stone towards broader adoption of AI-driven wellness solutions.
What sets Aescape apart from other robotic innovations isn’t just its sophisticated technology but its applicability to various demographic needs. For instance, professional athletes can benefit from targeted sports massages, while business travelers might opt for sessions that alleviate the stress and fatigue associated with long flights. Beyond just a fancy gadget, Aescape aims to make advanced wellness accessible and efficient for various lifestyles.
Another noteworthy aspect of Aescape’s roll-out is how it reflects broader trends in the hospitality and wellness industries. Luxury establishments are continuously seeking new ways to enhance guest experiences, and integrating cutting-edge technology is one path forward. As wellness tourism grows, the demand for innovative and convenient well-being solutions is set to rise.
The excitement surrounding robotic massages isn’t limited to hotels and fitness centers. Aescape’s technology also promises potential uses in corporate wellness programs, providing employees with on-site opportunities to decompress and rejuvenate. And for those managing vacation rentals or exclusive membership clubs, offering an Aescape massage could be an appealing perk that sets them apart from competitors.
The market for wellness tourism and automated well-being solutions seems vast, and Aescape is positioning itself as a leader in this emerging field. As these robotic massage systems become more ubiquitous, it raises intriguing possibilities about the future of wellness. Will we see a day when spas staffed entirely by machines become the norm? Or will human touch always hold a special place in the world of therapeutic treatments? Only time will tell.
For now, though, guests at the Lotte New York Palace have a unique opportunity to experience the cutting edge of wellness tech. With its serene ambiance and luxurious settings, the addition of Aescape offers an exciting, futuristic complement to the traditional spa experience. New York City's vibrant, ever-evolving landscape is the perfect backdrop for this blend of innovation and relaxation.
In the words of Joe Rose: "Aescape’s innovative approach to massage is adding to our wellness-forward amenities, and we look forward to bringing our guests a completely new massage experience." As wellness tech continues to evolve, partnering with leaders in the hospitality industry might just be the key to unlocking a new era of health and relaxation.