Apple is rolling out one of the most interesting features of iOS 15 that was first shown off at WWDC. In partnership with Hyatt Hotels, Apple is offering its users the ability to use iPhone or Apple Watch as a key to their hotel room by adding the keys to the Wallet app. Initially, the feature will be available for six hotels.
The user can add the key to Apple Wallet in the same way they add a movie ticket or DisneyWorld pass, using the hotel app. Once they make their reservation, they can add the key to the Wallet app so it's ready when they arrive at the hotel.
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then need to hold their iPhone or Apple Watch over the NFC-enabled door lock to gain access. As you can imagine, the Apple Wallet key won't unlock the door until check-in time.
The room number will also be visible on the digital key card. If a room change or extension of the hotel stay is required, the key card can be updated over-the-air, without the need for a physical presence at the reception.
The first six hotelswhere this feature will be available are: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa, Hyatt House Chicago/West Loop-Fulton Market, Hyatt House Dallas/Richardson, Hyatt Place Fremont/Silicon Valley and Hyatt Regency Long Beach.
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Apple Wallet keys support Express Mode, so you don't need to authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID to access your key. All you need to do is hold your device near the reader. The key card will also be available if your iPhone's battery is low and it goes into Power Reserve mode.
Another important element is privacy. Apple claims that privacy is one of the most fundamental elements in its products. This system, based on Apple Wallet, is also designed with user privacy in mind, and the company is not informed about when and where a room key is used.
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Although the Apple Wallet feature is initially available at just six hotels, Hyatt expects to roll out the system to all of its hotels over time.
Source: 9to5mac
