(Yicai Global) Nov. 9 -- Tencent Holdings and Shangri-La International Hotel Management have inked a strategic cooperation agreement for the development of high-end smart hotels.

The Shenzhen-based tech giant will assist Shangri-La with technology upgrading and business innovation related to the traditional hotel model, Beijing News reported yesterday. Shangri-La Asia President Kuok Hui Kwong and Tencent Senior Executive Vice President Dowson Tong attended a signing ceremony at Futian Shangri-La Hotel in Shenzhen.

Hong Kong-based Shangri-La will use Tencent's advanced cloud and artificial intelligence technologies, social network and payment tools to intelligently improve the traditional services and operations at hotels to bring more convenience and personalized services for customers.

Shangri-La will also support Tencent's strategic expansion in overseas markets with its global network of hotels and commercial resources to help promote China's cutting-edge technology.

They will also explore innovative practices related to digital and intelligent technologies in different business sectors, including Shangri-La's diversified business forms such as shopping malls, apartments and office buildings.

Editor: William Clegg