August 21, 2010— NEW YORK—With today's guests carrying technology with them to access the Internet, watch movies they bring from home, and even play games on hand-held devices, the hotel television is now just one component of a guest's in-room experience. As such, it has become increasingly challenging for some of the premium channels, such as HBO, to stand out.

However, according to Joe Snee, vp, Lodging and Special Markets for HBO, the network remains as relevant as ever.

"How do we maintain a competitive edge? By investing in product, and for us that's programming," he said, adding "we compete with others in the space by creating compelling programming viewers want to tune in to."

The network received 101 Emmy Award nominations for their programming this year, but Snee is particularly excited about future programming they are working on now.

"We have a number of series we have made commitments to that will come to fruition in the near future," he said.

For 2011, there are two new series, in particular, which he believes will be winners.

Boardwalk Empire will be set during the 1920s Prohibition in Atlantic City. The series had Martin Scorsese on tap as one of it's directors and, according to Snee, is one of the most anticipated series the network has had in a few years. Another big one will be called Luck, and will feature actor Dustin Hoffman as one of the recurring cast members. That series will focus on and around the horseracing industry.

In addition to the new series, Snee noted HBO will bring back many of its "series that appeal to lot of niche audiences as well." All in all, Snee noted he expects that television will continue to be the dominant form of in-room entertainment for the foreseeable future based on the strength of what it brings to the table.

In addition to the aforementioned programming, the fact that HBO has been in the lodging space for some 25 years also helps when it comes to a property's decision with regard to content. "Hotels are interested first and foremost in providing those channels guests expect," he said.