Sheraton Boston debuts Microsoft Surface technology

The Sheraton Boston, located on Dalton Street in the Back Bay, is one of five Sheraton properties that today will introduce a version of Microsoft Surface, a table-like computer.

The 30-inch display, which will be in the Sheraton's lobby, allows people to interact with content and information by using their hands and gestures.

A Massachusetts-based company is also marketing a large, horizontal computer display. The DiamondTouch "tabletop computer" is chasing some of the same ideas as the Microsoft version. (You can watch a video and read previous Globe coverage of this emerging computer genre here.)

The Microsoft Surface at the Sheraton is loaded with applications designed to provide entertainment and information about local attractions. For example, it contains satellite maps and tools that allow users to search for local restaurants and bars, entertainment, recreation, shopping, transportation and services, such as banks and pharmacies.

“We’re excited to be working with Sheraton in its efforts to feature innovation and redefine the guest experience in its hotel properties,” said Pete Thompson, general manager, Microsoft Surface. “Surface takes a common activity, such as looking up information about a local city, and transforms it into an intuitive and social way for hotel guests to plan their visit. We believe this is just the beginning of how Surface will completely change the hotel guest experience.”