Internet browsing will soon join local programming and premium movies as one of the communications options available through in-room television sets at U.S. Hilton hotels, through an agreement between Hilton Hotels Corp. and On Command Corp.

During a trial period in the second quarter of 1997, the San Jose Hilton and Towers in Northern California will offer Internet access via WebTV Network online service in all 355 guest rooms. The service then will be evaluated from implementation at other U.S. Hilton hotels.

During the initial phase of testing, Internet access via WebTV Network service is complimentary to guests at the San Jose Hilton and Towers.

"Providing Internet access to hotel guests through their in-room televisions is part of Hilton Hotels' commitment to emerging technologies," said Robert E. Dirks, senior vice president - marketing for Hilton Hotels. "Along with introducing online reservations booking through our Web site, expanding our hotel videoconferencing services, testing hotel lobby e-mail access devices and distributing free AT&T WorldNet Service Internet access software at select hotels, this initiative is yet another way Hilton is helping travelers gain access to the Internet and other technology that increases productivity."

To connect to the Internet, guests simply press a button on a remote control device to launch On Command's WebTV Network online service through the hotel's in-room television system. Guests may use the infrared wireless keyboard supplied by On Command to surf the Web, check e-mail and browse HiltonNet at http://www.hilton.com

HiltonNet visitors may choose options such as browsing the Hilton Hotels and Resorts Worldwide Directory, making reservations and registering their opinions in the exclusive Hilton Travel Tack Poll (HTTPoll). Members of the Hilton HHonors Worldwide guest reward program may also use HiltonNet to check their HHonors account balances.

The customized version of the WebTV Network online service offered by On Command uses an Ethernet connection rather than a modem. A high-speed T1 line carries data up to 50 times faster than most laptop computers with 28800 bps internet modems -- making Internet access through the On Command system even speedier for hotel guests.

"For guests who want to avoid the hassle of traveling with laptop computers, being able to access the Internet right on their in-room televisions is a great information asset," said Bob Kavner, CEO of On Command. "It's also a new entertainment option for leisure guests and beginners to see what Web surfing is all about. The hotel's 25-inch color TV screens and the Internet terminals' remote control technology make it easy for guests to relax and browse the Web from the comfort of their rooms."

"WebTV is a natural choice to complement the efforts of Hilton and On Command to expand the in-room information and entertainment options available to hotel guests," said Steve Perlman, co-founder, president and CEO of WebTV Networks. "We're excited to team up with these companies in providing a customized online service."

On Command, with headquarters in San Jose, is the world's leading supplier of entertainment and information services to the hotel and lodging industry. The On Command and SpectraVision services are available in more than 900,000 hotel rooms internationally, serving guests in more than 3,200 hotels and reaching more than 100,000,000 viewers every year.

Founded in June 1995 by Perlman, Bruce Leak and Phil Goldman, WebTV Networks is dedicated to bringing high-quality, affordable Internet access to television consumers through the WebTV Network service and WebTV/Open, its open architecture, end-to-end suite of technologies. WebTV Internet Terminal units are currently available through its licensees, Sony Electronics Inc. and Philips Consumer Electronics Co., at consumer electronic stores nationwide.

Located in the downtown business district and directly connected to the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, the San Jose Hilton and Towers features a ballroom, a total of 7,800 square feet of meeting space, a restaurant and bar, a gift shop and an exercise center with swimming pool and spa.

Hilton Hotels is recognized internationally as the preeminent gaming and hospitality company. The company develops, owns, manages or franchises hotel-casinos, resorts, vacation ownership and hotel properties.

Reservations can be made at more than 400 Hilton, Conrad International and Vista hotels worldwide on the Internet at http://www.hilton.com, or through a professional travel agent, or by contacting Hilton Reservations Worldwide at 800-HILTONS in the United States. Outside the United States, reservations can be made by calling the nearest Hilton Reservations Worldwide office.