Tootbus has launched Tootie, an artificial intelligence-powered conversational guide that the business says will transform how visitors interact with the cities served by the open-top tour bus specialist.
It will be introduced on 15 July and be available to users of Tootbus services in Bath, London, Paris and Brussels. Tootie will turn “every open-top bus ride into an interactive, dynamic conversation with the city,” Tootbus believes, and it notes how the product will equally suit first-time visitors and frequent explorers.
50 languages are part of the tool. When compared to the established multilingual audio guides deployed on open-top tours, Tootie is positioned by the business as “an interactive companion, capable of holding conversations with users.”
Using AI, Tootie will answer questions in real-time, provide directions, share stories and local tips, and adapt to the customer’s personal interests in the moment.
“It is like chatting with a local, but in your own language complete with local humour,” says Tootbus London Managing Director Gavin Brooking. “Tootie might also warn you not to stand on the left of the escalator, or where Londoners go for a pint after work.”
Using their own voice, visitors will get instant and tailored answers in their own language and delivered via a natural and conversational tone. That extends to knowing the story behind the Tower of London, finding a place for brunch near Covent Garden, or locating the nearest Tube station to a Tootbus stop, and much else besides.
Adds RATP Dev Executive Director Digital and Business Unit Sightseeing Arnaud Masson: “We wanted an intelligent city guide that interacts in a natural way with visitors, not just providing information, but sparking real inspiration for each guest.
“Tootie is the perfect blend of knowledge, technology and human connection – all working together to create a deeper discovery of the city.”
Tootie will be available via the Tootbus app.
