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DOOR OPENING WITH MOBILE WALLET
Over the past decade, mobile credentials have become a popular alternative to traditional keys and keycards. While mobile apps were the first wave of this innovation, including Door Cloud Mobile App, there is a newer trend: door opening using mobile wallets like Apple Wallet and Google Wallet.
Here we’ll break down the pros and cons of using a mobile wallet for door access, and explain how it compares to the Door Cloud mobile app method.
What Is Mobile Wallet-Based Door Access?
Mobile wallet access allows users to store digital access passes in their smartphone’s native wallet application (e.g., Apple Wallet or Google Wallet), just like boarding passes or payment cards. To open a door, users simply tap their phone or smartwatch near the reader — no need to open an app.
This approach relies on NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, and typically requires compatible readers and credential management systems that support wallet provisioning.
Pros of Using Mobile Wallets for Door Opening
1. Frictionless User Experience
With mobile wallets, unlocking a door becomes as easy as using Apple Pay. There’s no need to open an app or even unlock your phone if “Express Mode” is enabled. This is especially useful in high-traffic or hands-busy environments like office lobbies, parking garages, or residential buildings.
2. Works Without Battery or Signal (in Some Cases)
When Express Mode is used on iPhones, doors can still be opened even when the phone battery is critically low (thanks to the “Power Reserve” feature). Wallet credentials don’t rely on internet access once installed, which improves reliability.
3. No App Fatigue
Users don’t need to download, configure, or manage a separate access control app. For building operators, this reduces onboarding friction and support costs.
Cons of Mobile Wallet Access
1. Cost
Support for both Apple and Google Wallets require additional R&D effort and licensing costs for access control vendors. This is typically transfered to end users, who then pay significantly more for wallet based solutions.
2. Limited Features
Unlike mobile apps, wallet passes are relatively static. You can’t easily show access logs, occupancy stats, or visitor check-in data. There’s no direct communication channel with the user beyond basic notifications.
3. Provisioning Complexity
Issuing wallet-based credentials typically requires integration with Apple or Google’s provisioning systems. This process involves certificates, backend configuration, and sometimes additional licensing fees from access control vendors.
How Does It Compare to Door Cloud App-Based Access?
| Feature | Mobile Wallet | Door Cloud Mobile App |
|---|---|---|
| User Interaction | Tap and go | Open app, then tap |
| Speed | Instant (especially with Express Mode) | May be slower if app isn’t open |
| Hardware Support | Smartphones, smartwatches | Smartphones, Apple Watch |
| Security | Device-level + OS-enforced | App-level |
| Advanced Features | Limited | Wide range incl. visitor mgmt, schedules, logs… |
| Offline Capability | Yes (Express Mode + NFC) | Via Bluetooth |
| Cross-Platform Support | Requires support for both Apple and Google separately | One app supports both iOS and Android |
Mobile apps offer greater flexibility for organizations that need advanced features — such as managing users, complex access rights, or receiving notifications about security events. They also often use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which can provide access without requiring direct NFC tap, though with slightly longer unlock times. This is what is normally required by the corprate and government offices, industrial spaces and other professional environments.
Mobile wallets, on the other hand, shine in environments where speed, simplicity, and consistency are key — for example, in multi-tenant offices, hotels, or residential towers.
Conclusion
Mobile wallets represent a shift toward frictionless, simple and user-friendly access control. Their simplicity, speed, and growing support across smartphones and smartwatches make them attractive for many use cases.
However, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. If your access control system needs advanced features, customization, integrations, or complex workflows, mobile apps still offer more control and flexibility.
The best systems will offer both options, allowing users and operators to choose the experience that works best for them. No wonder that Door Cloud is currently developing support for wallet-based mobile operation, so check this space for updates.
