Before finalizing your reservation, verify if the hotel offers the ability to unlock rooms using a smartphone. This feature might be highlighted on the hotel’s website, amenities section, or room description.

If the information isn’t readily available or explicitly mentioned, it’s crucial to reach out and inquire. Ask specifically if they support mobile keys and if guests can unlock their hotel rooms using a phone.

Step 2: Download the Hotel’s App

Once you’ve confirmed that the hotel provides digital key functionality, the next step is to get the necessary software on your phone. In the Apple App Store or Google Play search bar, type the hotel name or the specific app they’ve mentioned to you.

Tap the download or install button once you’ve identified the right app. After installation, you’ll find the app icon on your device’s home screen or app drawer, ready to set up your digital key.

Step 3: Create an Account or Sign In

If you’re already a member of the hotel’s loyalty program or have previously used their app, select the “Sign In” option. Enter your username or email address and password associated with the account.

If you’re new to the app or the hotel’s loyalty program, choose the “Create Account” or “Sign Up” option. You’ll be prompted to provide personal information, such as your name, email address, contact number, and password.

Once your account is created, or after signing in, you’ll be directed to the app’s main dashboard or homepage, where you can access various features, including the digital key functionality.

Step 4: Link Your Reservation

After successfully signing into the hotel’s app, look for an option or section labeled “Reservations,” “My Bookings,” “Link Booking,” or something similar. This is typically found on the main dashboard or within a menu.

After successfully linking, your booking details, including check-in and check-out dates, room type, and other relevant information, should be displayed within the app. Alongside these details, there should be an indication or option related to the digital key feature, signaling that you’re set up and ready to use your phone as a key for your stay.

Step 5: Enable Bluetooth

Digital key systems in hotels predominantly rely on Bluetooth technology to establish a connection between your phone and the door lock. To ensure seamless communication, it’s crucial to have your phone’s Bluetooth activated.

Navigate to your phone’s settings. The exact path might vary depending on your device, but generally, you’ll find a “Bluetooth” option in the main settings menu or under “Connections” or “Connected devices.”

Tap on the “Bluetooth” option. If it’s not already enabled, toggle the switch or button to turn it on.

With Bluetooth enabled, your phone is now ready to communicate with the hotel room’s door lock, allowing you to use the digital key feature provided by the hotel’s app.

Step 6: Arrival & Check-In

Upon arriving at the hotel, the process you’ll follow will depend on the hotel’s policies and the technology they’ve implemented.

Head to the front desk for hotels requiring a more traditional check-in process. The staff will verify your reservation and inform you about the digital key feature. They might provide additional instructions or ensure the digital key is activated for your stay.

After the check-in process, whether digital or traditional, ensure you receive a notification or indication within the app that your digital key is active and ready for use. This might be represented by a “Digital Key Ready” message, a virtual key icon, or a similar prompt.

You can access your room using your phone with the digital key activated. As you approach your room, have the hotel’s app open and your Bluetooth enabled to ensure a smooth unlocking experience.

Step 7: Unlocking Your Room

As you near your hotel room, ensure your phone is in hand and ready to use.

• Launch the hotel’s app. Once open, navigate to the section or feature labeled “Digital Key,” “Unlock Door,” or a similar term. This is prominently displayed on the app’s main screen or dashboard for easy access.
• Depending on the hotel’s technology, there are two common methods of unlocking:
  1. Manual Unlock: Some apps require tapping a specific button or icon to initiate unlocking. This button might be labeled “Unlock,” “Open Door,” or similar. Upon tapping, the app communicates with the door lock via Bluetooth to unlock it.
  2. Proximity Unlock: Advanced systems might automatically detect when you’re close to your room’s door. In such cases, the door might unlock automatically without any action needed on your part, or the app might prompt you with a simple action like swiping or tapping a notification.
• Position your phone near the door lock. Most digital key systems use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), so you typically don’t need to touch the phone to the lock, but holding it a few inches away should suffice.
• Listen for an audible confirmation, like a beep or click, or watch for a visual cue, such as a green light on the door lock. These signals indicate that the door has been successfully unlocked.
• Grasp the door handle, turn it, and push or pull to open it. Welcome to your room! Always ensure your room’s security by using any additional locks or bolts provided once inside.

Step 9: Check-Out

As your stay ends, the convenience of digital services also extends to the check-out process. Many modern hotels have incorporated express check-out features in their apps to provide guests with hassle-free departures.

• Express Check-Out: Open the hotel’s app and navigate to the “Check-Out” or “Departure” section. This is often prominently displayed on the main screen as your check-out date approaches.
• Finalize Check-Out: After reviewing charges and settling any payments, tap the button to complete the check-out process. This might be labeled “Check Out Now,” “Complete Departure,” or something similar.

Utilizing the express check-out feature allows you to enjoy a smooth and efficient departure, maximizing convenience and minimizing wait times.