How we make money

10 Best Hotel Room Mobile Key Tech 2023

Hotel Tech Report | Last updated June 05, 2023

38 PRODUCTS REVIEWED

447 HOTELIERS SURVEYED

Vendor Shortlist

Product Suites

Category Info

Market Segments

Key Benefits

Feature Checklist

Pricing Estimates

Questions & Answers

FREE TOOL

Let us find the right Mobile Key and Keyless Entry for you

Tell us about your hotel’s location, room count, integrations and requirements and we’ll send a free custom list of recommended vendors.

PRODUCT BUNDLES

These Product Suites Also Contain Mobile Key & Keyless Entry

Other solutions that offer an integrated mobile key & keyless entry add-on module with their core product offering

Hotel Guest Apps

7 products offer Mobile Key & Keyless Entry modules

Duve

4.8 (209 reviews)

or read reviews

Duve’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

STAY

4.8 (221 reviews)

or read reviews

STAY’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

INTELITY

4.6 (59 reviews)

or read reviews

INTELITY’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

AeroGuest

or read reviews

AeroGuest’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

Operto Guest Technologies

or read reviews

Operto Guest Technologies’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

HotelBuddy

or read reviews

HotelBuddy’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

HolidayHero

or read reviews

HolidayHero’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

View more (5)

View less

Contactless Check-in

3 products offer Mobile Key & Keyless Entry modules

Vikey S.r.l

or read reviews

Vikey S.r.l’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

Hoteza

or read reviews

Hoteza’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

INTELITY

4.7 (19 reviews)

or read reviews

INTELITY’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

View more (1)

View less

Mobile Ordering & Room Service

2 products offer Mobile Key & Keyless Entry modules

SABA Hospitality

4.7 (67 reviews)

or read reviews

SABA Hospitality’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

IRIS Systems

4.8 (19 reviews)

or read reviews

IRIS Systems’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

Property Management Systems

1 products offer Mobile Key & Keyless Entry modules

ICG FrontHotel

or read reviews

ICG FrontHotel’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

Mobile Key & Keyless Entry

1 products offer Mobile Key & Keyless Entry modules

4SUITES

4.7 (14 reviews)

or read reviews

4SUITES’s Mobile Key & Keyless Entry product suite also includes:

OVERVIEW

What is Mobile Key & Keyless Entry

Looking to give your guests the ability to use their smartphone as a key to their room? It used to be the case that only major hotel brands had the ability to offer mobile key to members of their loyalty program but with the latest tech developments, now any hotel can without needing a massive budget. Mobile key not only helps cut down on key cards but it also eliminates common guest friction points ranging from frustrating keycard demagnetization to lost keys and also allows for a more streamlined and contactless checkin experience.

Finding the right Mobile Key & Keyless Entry solution for your hotel depends on several variables ranging from user experience and pricing to functionality and support. This guide is designed to help you identify the best Mobile Key & Keyless Entry vendors, questions to ask on demos, read unbiased reviews from similar hoteliers and so much more. (including our 2023 Mobile Key & Keyless Entry Guide)

BENEFITS

How can keyless entry help hotels improve profitability and efficiency?

Guest Convenience: A key benefit for hotel guests is the convenience of using their own smart device as a secure room key to access their room, eliminating the need to keep track of a physical key and the worry of losing it. It also saves time for guests by allowing them to check in remotely and go directly to their room upon arriving at the property, skipping the queue at the front desk.
Increased Security: In addition to the advanced digital encryption that is built in to Mobile Keys, the solution provides added security, since a guest’s smartphone is less likely to be misplaced than a plastic keycard and typically is password-protected by the user, providing a secondary layer of digital security. Should a guest lose their phone, Mobile Keys can typically be instantly revoked through the system and reassigned in real time by the hotel staff. Remote keyless entry can enable your hotel team to improve security via security system and access remote control and manage access even when off property.
Added Revenue Opportunities: Mobile Key solutions are typically app-based, allowing hoteliers to offer and promote a variety of revenue-generating amenities, services and offers to maximize ancillary room revenue. This, includes room upgrades, internet, room service, restaurant & spa bookings and other optional on-property offers. Since the Mobile Key is used often by the guest to access the room, it encourages download and frequent use of the app, maximizing the resulting revenue opportunities available within the app.

FEATURES

What are the most important features of mobile keys for hotels?

Future-proof Technology: When comparing Mobile Key solutions, hotels must bear in mind whether a particular platform can provide a level of security that meets the highest industry standards, and that it can be easily and affordably updated as technology evolves. The provider they choose should have a track record on innovation and timely release of the most advanced upgrades, as relevant and reliable new security technologies emerge. Keyless locks are mainstream in home security to open door handles and are increasingly being used beyond the smart home. Hotels can future proof their properties by staying up to date with the latest in home technology trends.
Flexible and Modular Solutions: As each property has different needs for security and locking solutions, hoteliers should select a Keyless Entry locking system provider that offers various ways to implement the solution, either via integrated software, though a hotel’s own mobile app or through certified third-party providers.
Training and Onboarding Capabilities: As a relatively new technology, the success of Mobile Key and Keyless Entry at any given property is highly dependent upon its adoption by staff and guests. Hoteliers considering implementing Mobile Key should identify a partner that offers adequate consultation, training and educational materials on how to implement and use the system, as well as how to encourage its use by guests, in order to get the best ROI.
Financial Security and Backing: Due to the rapidly growing demand for Keyless Entry, there are many providers in the marketplace today and many others emerging. To ensure the most reliable and stable solution, hoteliers should seek out providers that are backed by a trusted and financially secure company that has a long history of success and support in the industry.
Service and Support: Coverage Since the hotel industry is a global one, properties and groups - especially those with properties in more than one region - should make sure their chosen vendor provides adequate service and support in every property’s local area. It is therefore best to choose a global provider of Keyless Entry and Digital Key services to ensure the best ongoing support.

PRICING

What are the typical pricing models and ranges that I should budget for?

Hardware Expense. Most hotels already have hardware from major locks providers.
Implementation & Training. $5,000-$20,000. Many vendors are waiving implementation fees due to COVID.
Monthly Subscription. $1-$3 per room per month

IMPLEMENTATION

What does the typical implementation timeline and process look like to go live?

Varies by property. Mobile key vendors are typically able to deploy solutions remotely, resulting in a faster and more efficient delivery for hoteliers. During the implementation process, vendors work in close cooperation with customers which means that hoteliers get to know solutions better and vendors get a hands-on understanding of what the hotel's specific needs are. Depending on the solution, the whole process usually only takes 30-90 days.

FAQs

Hoteliers Also Ask

What makes a great keyless entry experience for hotel guests?

Hotel guests save valuable time by skipping the front desk and going directly to their rooms and unlocking the lock with their own smart device. They also enjoy the convenience of not having to keep up with a physical key. Mobile Key also reduces the workload at the front desk, freeing up staff to concentrate on more valuable guest services and engagement. Guests also benefit from increased security since Mobile Keys are housed on the user’s personal smart device, which is typically password-protected, it is inherently more secure. Digital keys are also encrypted to ensure that only authorized users can gain access to a guest room or other assigned areas.

Why do hotels need mobile keys and a keyless entry system?

A Mobile Key is a digitally encrypted ; that resides on a mobile device, smartphone, tablet or wearable key fob, allowing the authorized user to gain access to secured doors or other physical or digital access points within a property. The advancement of this mobile technology and its successful application of digital keys within the hospitality industry has led to a rapidly growing trend toward Keyless Entry. This innovative solution allows hotel guests to check in and access their assigned guest room immediately upon arrival via smart lock, unlocking the door with their mobile device via the Mobile Key and thus eliminating the need to visit the front desk. Some mobile keys operate via touchscreen keypad and others via bluetooth smart key. The solution works by generating an encrypted digital key that is transmitted to users’ smart devices and safely stored in a key vault on a mobile app. When presented to the appropriate door lock, the app then transmits digital key information over a secure communication channel, ensuring that only authorized users are able to gain access. When Keyless Entry is implemented at a property, both guests and authorized staff members enjoy the convenience of using their smart device as a secure key to access assigned areas of a property without the need to carry or keep track of a separate physical key.

How to choose the mobile hotel room key technology

When selecting a mobile key technology provider for their property, hotels should consider the following steps: Identify Needs: Begin by understanding the specific requirements of the hotel. Assess the desired functionality, such as mobile check-in, digital key access, and contactless room entry, that will enhance the guest experience and streamline hotel operations. Research Providers: Explore various mobile key solution providers in the hospitality industry. Look for established companies like OpenKey, ASSA ABLOY, or OpenKey, which have experience in mobile key technology and offer reliable lock systems and access control solutions. Evaluate Compatibility: Assess the compatibility of the mobile key technology with the existing infrastructure and property management system (PMS). Ensure the chosen provider's solution integrates seamlessly with the hotel's PMS and other hotel systems to enable real-time communication and accurate guest information. Analyze Functionality: Review the features and functionality of the mobile key technology. Consider aspects such as mobile app usability, Bluetooth or near field communication (NFC) capabilities for door lock communication, and the ability to provide keyless entry to guest rooms and other hotel areas like the parking garage. Consider Security: Prioritize the security of the mobile key technology. Verify that the provider utilizes robust encryption protocols, secure APIs, and reliable access management systems to safeguard guest room access. Check Vendor Support: Evaluate the level of technical support and customer service provided by the mobile key tech provider. Ensure they offer timely assistance for any issues that may arise during implementation or ongoing use of the solution. Review User Experience: Seek feedback from other hoteliers or colleagues in the industry who have implemented the same or similar mobile key technology. Assess their experience with the provider's solution and inquire about guest satisfaction, ease of use, and any challenges faced during implementation. Request Demos and Trials: Request demos or trials of the mobile key technology from shortlisted providers. This will allow hotel staff to experience the solution firsthand and assess its performance, user-friendliness, and compatibility with existing hotel systems. Consider Cost and ROI: Evaluate the cost structure of the mobile key solution, including upfront fees, recurring charges, and potential integration costs. Consider the return on investment (ROI) in terms of improved guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, and reduced reliance on physical key cards. Make an Informed Decision: After considering all the above factors, select the mobile key tech provider that best aligns with the hotel's needs, offers a reliable solution, provides excellent customer support, and delivers the desired functionality and security. By following these steps, hotels can choose the right mobile key tech provider and enhance their guest experience, streamline operations, and improve overall guest satisfaction.

Discover Apps

Resources

Get Advice

10 Best Hotel Room Mobile Key Tech 2023

	White Paper Modernizing the Hotel Access Management System
	From ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions

	White Paper Hotel Occupancy Rate Trends and Forecasting in 2023
	From chatlyn

	INTELITY Set to Launch Mobile App with The Leading Hotels...
	From INTELITY

	Fantasyland Hotel Partners with INTELITY for Mobile Guest...
	From INTELITY