Tech
AIDA Cruises fleet sets sail with OpenRoaming for Wi-Fi connectivity | Computer Weekly
AIDA Cruises has engaged Cisco Services to deploy Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) OpenRoaming technology across its fleet.
The cruise industry is currently experiencing rapid growth, but from a networking perspective, ships operate in some of the most challenging environments and remote locations in the world, and with Wi-Fi a staple of any modern holiday offering, AIDA Cruises’ wireless network needs to operate 24/7, span 12-20, manage densely packed connections, and sustain them as users move around the ship.
The WBA’s overall stated aim is to drive “seamless”, interoperable service experiences via Wi-Fi within the global wireless ecosystem, and AIDA is the first cruise brand to introduce OpenRoaming at sea, offering what it calls “seamless” Wi-Fi for staff and passengers as they move around ships, wherever they are in the open sea.
OpenRoaming is designed to offer an automatic and secure connection of billions of devices to millions of Wi-Fi networks, providing a global standards-led approach, removing public-guest Wi-Fi connectivity barriers, and bringing greater convenience and security to the wireless ecosystem.
The WBA insists that OpenRoaming can simplify Wi-Fi, much like the cellular roaming experience. It says companies that join WBA OpenRoaming can allow end-users to automatically connect on any Wi-Fi network managed by a federation member. This, it claims, creates a world where Wi-Fi users move from one network to another without needing to constantly re-register or sign in.
The OpenRoaming framework and standards are based on a number of key features. For cloud federation, this consists of a global database of networks and identities, dynamic discovery and the Wireless Roaming Intermediary Exchange.
AIDA Cruises is using the Cisco Wireless family of products to enable OpenRoaming across 11 ships, including Cisco Wireless 9800 series controllers and the Cisco Wireless 9100 series access points. The OpenRoaming AIDA network supports operational systems, entertainment and safety. It also provides critical guest services including the onboard information portal for daily programmes, next port information, onboard chat and booking services.
Implemented as part of a broader modernisation of AIDA Cruises’ network architecture, the WBA says OpenRoaming can enable a “frictionless” user experience by eliminating repeated logins in future, supporting seamless, secure Wi-Fi access for passengers and ship staff.
Passengers can connect instantly to Wi-Fi using pre-existing profiles, removing the need for login screens, and enjoy a consistent connectivity experience as they move around the ship. Users with OpenRoaming natively on their phone, via an existing profile or their preferred app, can access Wi-Fi automatically with no usernames or passwords, safe in the knowledge that the connection is secure.
OpenRoaming is also claimed to support uninterrupted streaming and social sharing for guests, and reliable connectivity for crew workflows throughout vessels, including mission-critical tasks such as servicing and safety-related tasks.
The onboard experience was validated on the first ship fitted out as part of a 14-day repeatable dry-dock programme, in which AIDA and Cisco Services executed a complete network overhaul within a tight window of opportunity before returning the ship to sea.
Commenting on the deployment, AIDA Cruises CIO Gordon Poppe said: “We’re in the middle of the open ocean, but we actually exceed the connection standards you would experience in many places on land. If you’re on a FaceTime call and you move around the ship from deck to deck, you will always be connected and won’t drop. Connectivity is not only about being connected to the internet, but it’s also being able to connect to our digital touch points on board, from the minute you enter the ship.”
Tiago Rodrigues, president and CEO of the Wireless Broadband Alliance, added: “Cruise guests want connectivity that feels effortless and secure from the moment they step onboard to access ship services and use their own devices. With their OpenRoaming profile, they can even seamlessly connect to OpenRoaming-enabled Wi-Fi at each port and city they visit.
“AIDA Cruises is showing how open, interoperable Wi-Fi roaming can remove friction at scale, improve the guest experience and support operational performance in one of the most demanding connectivity environments.”
Following its Silver Award win at the UK Digital Excellence Awards in the Standout Platform/ Technology/Tool category earlier in the year, this global recognition highlights Coats Digital’s ongoing mission to accelerate the digital transformation of the fashion supply chain. The company’s flagship SaaS platform, GSDCost, continues to redefine how brands and manufacturers plan production, set costs, and maintain ethical and efficient operations across complex supply chains.
Coats Digital’s GSDCost won the Software Innovation Award at the Global Digital Excellence Awards 2025, recognising its impact on digitalising fashion supply chains.
Judges praised GSDCost for combining scientific benchmarking, fair wage compliance, and SaaS scalability.
Coats Digital also unveiled GSDQuest, an AI-powered evolution for automated garment costing and ethical production planning.
The Global Digital Excellence Awards 2025 took place on 16th October as a virtual event organised by Don’t Panic Events. This prestigious programme recognises exceptional digital websites, campaigns, tools, and teams from around the world. The awards celebrate creative thinking, innovative use of data, technical excellence, pioneering research tools, and technologies that drive growth and efficiency. Judged by a panel of industry experts, the process is rigorous and transparent. The Global Digital Excellence Awards are part of the wider Digital Excellence Awards series, which also includes the UK Digital Excellence Awards.
Kunal Kapur, Managing Director, Coats Digital, said: “Winning the Software Innovation Award at the Global Digital Excellence Awards is a tremendous honour to the creativity, dedication, and expertise of our team. GSDCost tackles some of the fashion industry’s most complex challenges — from inconsistent costing and planning to embedding ethical standards across global supply chains. Being acknowledged on a global stage validates the impact our platform is already having and motivates us to continue driving innovation and transformation across the industry.”
Comment from Award Judges: “GSDCost is a powerful example of software driving both operational and social responsibility. This tool addresses a global industry challenge with clarity and purpose, combining scientific benchmarking, fair wage compliance and SaaS scalability. Backed by strong case studies and real-world results, it demonstrates true innovation in a sector long overdue for transformation.”
Building on the success of GSDCost, Coats Digital is investing in next-generation technology with the launch of GSDQuest, an AI-powered evolution of the platform. GSDQuest automates complex garment costing processes, generating highly accurate Bills of Labour in seconds from garment images and tech packs. This enables brands, manufacturers, and suppliers of all sizes to plan production faster, make data-driven decisions, and maintain ethical compliance across their supply chains. By combining the proven scientific methodology of GSDCost with AI-driven efficiency, GSDQuest represents the future of intelligent, transparent, and scalable garment costing.
Adrian Elliott, CEO Apparel & Group Commercial Officer, Coats Group, added: “We are absolutely delighted with this prestigious accolade for software innovation. At Coats Digital, we are committed to shaping the future of the fashion supply chain through strategic investment in next-generation technology. GSDCost has already helped brands and manufacturers work more efficiently, plan capacity with confidence, and uphold ethical standards. With the launch of GSDQuest, we are extending these capabilities with AI-driven intelligence, enabling faster, more accurate decision-making, improved collaboration across the supply chain, and equipping businesses to respond more effectively to an increasingly complex and dynamic industry.”
Note: The headline, insights, and image of this press release may have been refined by the Fibre2Fashion staff; the rest of the content remains unchanged.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (MS)
If you’re tired of listening to the crackle from the speakers on the back of your TV but aren’t ready for the full subwoofer-boosted suite, I’ve got a good deal for you. The Klipsch Flexus Core 200 is currently marked down by $50 at Amazon, and it’s a great place to start if you’re looking for a soundbar that will give you options down the road.
It has fewer channels built into the sound bar than some of our other favorite picks, notably lacking the side-firing drivers that help with surround effects. That doesn’t keep it from sounding excellent, thanks to its 44-inch wide footprint and 2.25-inch drivers that reach all the way to either end. Our reviewer Ryan Waniata was impressed by the Core 200’s clarity and detail, and in particular called out the very punchy bass response.
While the bar has built-in controls for simple tasks like changing the volume and inputs, you can also use the mobile app to fine tune your audio experience. In addition to the stuff you’d expect, there’s also a three-band equalizer for those who like to fiddle and advanced settings for any extra speakers you add to the setup. With eARC to communicate with your TV, you shouldn’t need to touch the remote or app often anyway.
That’s right, one of the biggest selling points for the Klipsch Flexus Core 200 is the ability to add additional speakers to your setup. Both the Klipsch Flexus Surr 100 bookshelf speakers and Klipsch Flexus Sub 100 connect wirelessly to the Core 200 with a custom dongle, giving you a ton of freedom to stash the extra speakers wherever they’d sound best. If you have your own subwoofer that you like, there’s also an RCA jack on the bar to hook it up. That’s a lot of flexibility for any soundbar, let alone one at this price point.
If you’re ready to get the ball rolling on a proper sound system for your next movie night, you can save $50 on the Flexus Core 200, or meander over to our roundup of the best soundbars we’ve tested to find the best option for you.
This is not a true duffel bag so much as “the world’s first true wide-mouth packing system,” as Rux calls it, but it is nevertheless an impressive piece of equipment from a company known for its modular gear-toting systems. Not unlike a foldable version of the popular 70L storage container, the Duffel box starts completely flat, but the sides pop up, and the patent-pending top rolls down to form a box that stays open on its own. There are no zippers involved in its construction, but there are multiple straps, panels, and pockets, and you will most likely need to watch an instructional YouTube video to make full use of all the features. However, the beauty of this bag is that it can be just about anything you want it to be. Long-term storage, luggage, a gear box—even a backpack. All is possible with the included straps and dividers in the right places.
Over the past four months, my family has used it as a traditional duffel bag, a storage box, and, currently, a portable equipment organizer for my son’s club soccer team. It’s been stepped on, rained on, and thrown in wagons and vehicle trunks, with nary a scratch on the 105D nylon gridstop fabric. (Though it did get stuck in a downpour once, and I will say I’m not sure I’d quantify the fabric as fully waterproof—closer to water resistant.) Lash points along the inside walls allow it to integrate with Rux’s line of accessories and packing bags (sold separately), in which we’re currently keeping pinnies and goalkeeper gear.
The Duffel Box will be officially for sale on March 16 in two sizes, 55L and 75L; pictured is the 55L. Note that a “Plus” version will include a removable universal shoulder strap, which connects to lash points on the outside, for an extra $25. —Kat Merck
| Capacity | 55L, 75L |
| Color Options | 2 |
| Dimensions | 14.2″ x 18.1″ x 12.6″ |
| Materials | Nylon gridstop with waterproof coating and PFAS-free DWR. 3-mm EVA foam. |
| Additional Features | Zipper-free. Water-resistant. Compatible with various accessories and packing bags. |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
North Korea’s Kim Jong-un re-elected General Secretary of Workers’ Party
Feeling Unprepared For AI Age? LinkedIn Lists 5 Skill Stacks That Matter Now
ICE cotton slips on rollover pressure, tariff worries
-
Entertainment7 days agoQueen Camilla reveals her sister’s connection to Princess Diana
-
Tech1 week agoRakuten Mobile proposal selected for Jaxa space strategy | Computer Weekly
-
Politics7 days agoRamadan moon sighted in Saudi Arabia, other Gulf countries
-
Entertainment1 week agoRobert Duvall, known for his roles in "The Godfather" and "Apocalypse Now," dies at 95
-
Politics1 week agoTarique Rahman Takes Oath as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Following Decisive BNP Triumph
-
Business1 week agoTax Saving FD: This Simple Investment Can Help You Earn And Save More
-
Tech1 week agoBusinesses may be caught by government proposals to restrict VPN use | Computer Weekly
-
Sports1 week agoUsman Tariq backs Babar and Shaheen ahead of do-or-die Namibia clash