What are Mobile Keys?

Mobile Keys (sometimes also referred to as mobile keyless entry or digital key) are a technology that allows hotel guests to use their mobile devices as room keys. This technology enables contactless check-in at hotels, where guests can bypass the front desk and go directly to their rooms using their mobile devices.

The technology works by using near field communication (NFC) or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to communicate between the guest’s mobile device and the hotel’s access system. When the guest arrives at the hotel, they receive a digital key via a hotel mobile app or email. The guest can then use their mobile device to unlock their hotel room.

Next generation mobile keys in hotels are based on the Internet of Things (IoT) instead of Bluetooth. This means that guests no longer need to have a specific app installed on their phone to gain access to their room. All they need is a phone connected to the internet via WiFi or mobile data (3G, 4G or 5G).

The guest can access their room by opening a webapp on their phone. The phone sends a signal via IoT to the smart door locks, which then unlock the door. This technology is faster and more efficient than previous methods that relied on Bluetooth. The door is unlocked within 250 milliseconds, which is much faster than the response time of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which can be slower.

This new technology offers guests a seamless and convenient experience as they no longer have to worry about downloading an app to enter their room. The IoT-based mobile keys also offer enhanced security and faster access, making it a great option for hotels looking to improve the guest experience and streamline operations.

The future of hospitality is rapidly moving towards contactless experiences and mobile keys are at the forefront of this shift. With the rise of remote check-in and cloud-based property management systems (PMS), hotels are able to offer guests a more convenient and personalized experience.