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Why Smartphone Credentials Are the Future of Access Control

The world is teeming with smartphones, with an astonishing 6.5 billion users globally. It’s no surprise that the mobile access control market is skyrocketing, projected to swell from $295 million in revenue in 2022 to over $750 million by 2028—a growth rate of about 17% annually. 

This growth is happening even as this technology is still in its early stages. A recent study found that only 10% to 20% of integrators are using mobile credentials, compared to older technologies, suggesting a huge potential for expansion.

Mobile credentials, utilizing technologies like near field communication (NFC) or Bluetooth, are quickly becoming a preferred solution due to their flexibility, security, and ease of use. This shift is not only about adopting new technology but also about future-proofing security investments across various sectors.

The Rising Importance of Mobile

Mobile credentials offer significant advantages over traditional methods. They are more convenient, provide better security, and are cost-effective. Moreover, they are environmentally friendly, reducing the need for plastic cards. Imagine entering your workplace, logging into your computer, or even paying for your lunch at the university cafeteria, all with a swipe of your smartphone. This technology simplifies access management in co-working spaces, rental properties, and office environments, eliminating the hassle of physical keys or cards.

A Secure Mobile Technology

The security benefits of mobile credentials are substantial. Traditional key cards or fobs can be lost and used by unauthorized persons if not reported. However, a lost smartphone is often noticed and reported quickly, thanks to built-in security features like biometric scans and passcodes. Mobile credentials also tackle the issue of credential sharing, as people are generally reluctant to hand over their smartphones to others. This modern approach not only enhances security but also simplifies the process of issuing access rights via email, which cuts down on the costs and environmental impact associated with producing and distributing physical cards.

Integration Brings Innovation

The integration of mobile credentials into everyday technology brings forth innovative solutions and minimizes traditional downsides. Universities can integrate mobile credentials for various campus services, landlords can streamline tenant access without physical key exchanges, and offices can offer easy locker access. Furthermore, this technology effectively addresses the problem of cloned cards—a common issue with traditional low-frequency card technologies.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we look towards 2025, the evolution of mobile credentials is set to continue. Innovations in reader hardware, including the adoption of protocols like Apple’s Enhanced Contactless Polling, are expected. These advancements will improve the user experience by enabling features such as auto-presentment, which automatically selects the correct pass when multiple credentials are stored on a device. Efforts are also underway to enhance the security and reusability of mobile credentials through distributed identity management, which, while adding complexity for administrators, offers unmatched convenience and security to users.

The shift towards mobile credentials is not just a trend—it’s a strategic move towards more secure, efficient, and sustainable access control solutions. As these technologies evolve and integrate more seamlessly with our everyday devices, their adoption is expected to accelerate, reshaping the landscape of access control in ways we are just beginning to realize. As businesses and institutions recognize the benefits, the future where our smartphone is our key seems not just plausible, but inevitable.

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