SKEMA Digital Marketing in Tourism and Events: When will iTravel hit the road, Jack?

Some images are worth a thousand words, at least some leaked screenshots from the US Patent Department that represent the new travel app that Apple may be developing.

Although the information is not new, the expectancy is growing between bloggers and IT followers. It seems that Apple wants to achieve with iTravel what they did with iTunes and convert the Ipad or Iphone in the main tool to make bookings and organize trips.

The detailed patent documentation arises suspicions about a prompt release.

http://www.ausbt.com.au

The app has a global approach and aims at covering pre, during and post phases in travelling. It would provide bookings and access to a wide database of suppliers and its services, promotions and offers.

Other features help planning the itinerary and coordinating all data, added to paperless ticketing and wireless check-in systems. According to the website Australian Business (www.ausbt.com.au), this solution is similar to Qantas Next-Generation Check-in.

During the flight, the mobile would connect with the in-flight entertainment system to play online or decide which film you are going to watch.

After the flight, when the customer is close to the destination, the GPS will notice his presence and send some alerts or messages to the hotel, for example.

Touristic guides can easily be downloaded through iTravel (on commission), and one of the issues that have surprised us is that the mobile can be transformed into a digital wallet.

After the entrance of Google into the travel distribution system, we assume that Apple wants to share the piece of cake to hoard market share with some selected suppliers.

Apple’s position of strength will help this travel App to gain quick reputation, moreover because nowadays there are numerous applications who offer specific solutions but none that integrates all the processes in one. This is undoubtedly an added value.

Besides, if Apple decides to integrate distribution channels as OTAs, price comparison sites, metasearch engines, etc.

In iTravel, consumers would benefit from a product portfolio with competitive rates.

All in all, the fact that Apple will start commercializing touristic products is just a question of time. The industry will have another competitor or an allied to consider, and the Ipod or Ipad holder will benefit from a tool that will accompany him through the whole trip, from booking to playing on board, from paying services as an electronic wallet to reviewing hotels and attractions. All in the palm of your hand!