MSC Details Virtual In-Cabin Assistant. What do we think?

MSC Cruises has announced more details on their ZOE personal assistant, a la Google Home or Amazon's Alexa. https://cruiseline.com/advice/what-s-hot/news/msc-releases-details-virtual-cruise-assistant

What do we think? I don't love the idea. I have a small Amazon Echo but I don't even have that plugged in all the time at home, and I don't know if the need outweighs the potential risk. I don't mind much of the technology on ships, such as the wristbands that Royal and MSC use like Disney's magicbands because those are very convenient. But other things like ordering a pizza from wherever you are, using your phone to unlock the door, etc. I feel are eh. I don't think it's necessary and I like to unplug at least a little bit during a cruise if I'm not working on it.

Tags: technology msc cruises zoe msc for me virtual assistant

5 Answers

I agree with the above.

I will admit that I do have an Echo Dot, as well as an IHome alarm clock (both Alexa enabled), as it is nice to adjust the lights or set the alarm without getting up and walking across the room, but I cannot imagine what ZOE would be able to offer that is not already easily available by picking up the phone, reading the newsletter or checking the ship's app. Just seems to be a bit of glitz - it looks pretty but does nothing worthwhile.

Very interesting concept but i am not sure that adaptation will be quite what they expect. Personally I am not a fan for the simple reason it gives big brother another channel into your life. I have heard reports and have experienced first hand discussing a new topic with someone and never mentioning it online then suddenly getting adds in my browser for it. These wonderful new voice devices report back to somewhere. They have to for corrections and updates.

Speaking of updates I wonder how well that will work if the ship has to do an emergency itinerary change. How quickly will the device pick up the changes.

In my opinion this is just another means to replace the human factor.

I realize the cruise industry wants to "keep up with the times" but I agree with you, Sarah, we unplug when cruising. I also understand that not everyone can completely unplug because of work, family situation or something else back "home". I still am not a fan of virtual assistance, window to the outside or any of that. I want to breathe the salt air and watch the ocean (preferably from my balcony). From my personal view point, they can keep "ZOE".

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