Digital Keys: Tips, Benefits, Installation
Mobile Keys for Independent Hotels
Mobile keys for independent hotels mean travelers no longer have to fumble around with keys or worry about misplacing them. Instead, they can check in online, purchase extra services and access rooms using their most indispensable travel companion - the mobile phone.
Mobile-savvy travelers are demanding more automation and hands-on control over each step of their journey, and thanks to cloud hotel management systems (HMS), it’s becoming increasingly easier for independent hotels to adopt digital technologies like mobile keys and meet guest expectations.
In this article, RoomRaccoon HMS and FLEXIPASS lend their expertise on mobile keys for independent hotels and answer your questions about installation, costs, and functionality.
Is Keyless Entry Popular Among Independent Hotels?
Mobile hotel keys were first introduced in 2010. Within the most prominent global hotel brands, the mobile key has gone mainstream, with most hotels offering the perk to their loyalty program members or as a way to create competitive differentiation.
Mobile key adoption for independent and smaller hotel brands has dramatically grown from 2018 to 2019. According to FLEXIPASS, over 50% of its users in this segment offer mobile keyless entry to guests today. RoomRaccoon data shows that digital door keys and guest access were independent hotels' fifth most popular integration in 2022.
How Do Mobile Hotel Keys Work?
Mobile key providers like FLEXIPASS use Bluetooth technology to create a mutually authenticated channel between a mobile device, such as a smartphone, and a compatible “BLE” door lock. This connection is fully encrypted and secure.
In other words, a guest turns on Bluetooth on their mobile device, opens the FLEXIPASS app and taps the phone against the door reader.
Yes, it’s that simple, and no internet connection is needed.
What about the physical door lock installation?
FLEXIPASS works closely with the leading door lock providers ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions, Dormakaba, and SALTO Systems. The door lock provider is responsible for installing the physical door lock.
Once door locks are installed and working, FLEXIPASS sets up the mobile key on-premise or it can be activated through your hotel management system on the cloud within minutes. It’s, therefore, important to check if your hotel software system integrates with mobile key providers.
FLEXIPASS is fully integrated with RoomRaccoon's hotel management system (HMS) to automate the entire pre-arrival process. The RoomRaccoon HMS sends arriving guests an automated check-in request with a unique one-time code that prompts them to download the FLEXIPASS app from the App Store or Google Play and enter the code.
The guest uses the app to unlock doors during the length of their stay. When the guest checks out, RoomRaccoon automatically lets FLEXIPASS know, and the key is instantly deactivated.
Which Doors Can Mobile Keys Open in Hotels?
A mobile key will allow guests to enter spa areas, the gym, elevators, meeting areas, and the entrance door. Hotel managers can decide which guests have access to which areas of the property.
This means that keyless entry is fully customisable, giving you more control over the comings and goings of guests for improved security.
