Major hotel chains like Marriott and Hiltonare experimenting with new ideas for room keys. In recent years, plastic key cards have replaced physical keys, but now they too are looking outdated. Digital keys on smartphones could be the next big thing in hotels. The technology is already in use, but to date, only 14% of guests at major hotels use digital keys.
Hotel chains are now requesting the installation of locks that can be opened with digital keys, although the process of replacing all locks will take time.
The idea behind this change is that individuals will feel more secure with digital keys, as they provide a sense of protection and updates can be pushed immediately to the corresponding app.
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Plus, it's very easy to use phone as a key instead of dealing with cards.
However, the aforementioned sense of security is rather subjective. According to Lee Clark, cybersecurity at the Retail and Hospitality Information Sharing and Analysis Center (RH-ISAC), “keyless systems can introduce new threats to managing hotel security operations.”
Some security measures could potentially be implemented, such as multi-factor authentication. However, if hotel chains start requiring such security from guests using digital keys, the process will become more difficult and time-consuming than using a traditional key or card.
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Additionally, “ moving to digital keyless systems involves significant costs in equipment, installation, maintenance and security,” says Clark.
As with any new technology, the introduction of digital keys in hotels has its advantages and disadvantages. The technology needs to be well studied before it can be widely used.
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As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more developments in key innovations in rooms hotel. The possibilities are endless and it will be exciting to see how these developments will further enhance the guest experience in the future. It is vital for hotels to keep up with these changes and embrace technology to remain competitive and provide a seamless experience for their guests. With more travelers seeking convenience, efficiency and personalization in their hotel stays, digital keys are undoubtedly a game changer in the hospitality industry.
Source: www.phonearena.com
