Elevator and escalator manufacturer Otis New Zealand has integrated a new service robot with one of its elevators at The Sudima Hotel in Auckland.

Developed in collaboration with robotics provider Pudu, the service robot can place calls and navigate the hotel's Gen2 elevator without human assistance.

This integration is made possible by the Otis Integrated Dispatch technology, which enables the robot to operate the elevator autonomously, enhancing the delivery of food and beverages to guest rooms and other room services.

Otis Integrated Dispatch is designed as an application programming interface (API) solution, allowing a wide range of autonomous service robots to interface with Otis elevators.

Compatible with almost every commercial Otis elevator since the 1990s, the company said that this technology is set to simplify how service robots interact within buildings.

Otis Elevator New Zealand and Pacific Islands general manager Rob Watson said: “We’re proud to announce the first example of Otis Integrated Dispatch in New Zealand.

“It’s an exciting milestone that reflects Sudima Hotels’ trust in our smart elevator systems and advanced digital technologies. Otis first installed the lifts at the Sudima Auckland City hotel in 2021 and has collaborated with the hotel over the past four years to deliver innovative vertical transportation solutions that elevate the guest experience.

“We look forward to bringing this innovative technology to more hotels and commercial buildings across New Zealand.”