Wallet passes for access control - convenience AND security

Published on 27th February 2025

Wallet passes for access control - convenience AND security

Wallet passes are amazing! Offering unmatched convenience, enhanced security, and seamless integration with everyday technology. Here’s why businesses and individuals are embracing wallet passes as the future of access control.

What are wallet passes?

Wallet passes are digital credentials stored on smartphones through mobile wallet apps such as Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. These passes can function as event tickets, membership cards, boarding passes, or even employee IDs, providing a versatile and eco-friendly alternative to traditional access control methods like physical cards or paper tickets.

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The advantages of wallet passes in access control

Convenience and user experience

Wallet passes eliminate the need for physical cards or documents, which can be easily lost or damaged. Users simply present their smartphones to a scanner, enabling fast, hassle-free access. This streamlined process improves user experience, particularly in high-traffic environments such as events, offices, or airports.

Enhanced security features

Digital wallet passes are equipped with advanced security measures, including encryption, tokenization, and biometric authentication. Unlike physical cards, which can be copied or stolen, wallet passes are tied to a specific device and often require a fingerprint, facial recognition, or passcode to access.

Real-time updates

One of the standout features of wallet passes is their ability to update dynamically. Event organizers or access administrators can instantly update the pass with new information, such as venue changes, schedule updates, or personalized access permissions. This eliminates confusion and ensures users always have the most accurate details at their fingertips.

Cost-effective and eco-friendly

By replacing physical access cards or tickets with digital alternatives, businesses can significantly reduce costs associated with printing, distribution, and replacement. Additionally, wallet passes contribute to sustainability by minimising paper and plastic waste.

Customisable and brand-able

Wallet passes can be designed to reflect a company’s branding, enhancing their professional image. QR codes, NFC (Near Field Communication), and scannable barcodes make them compatible with existing access systems, reducing the need for expensive infrastructure changes.

Seamless integration with ecosystems

Mobile wallets are already widely used for payments, loyalty programs, and transportation. Integrating access control into the same ecosystem creates a unified, frictionless experience for users who can rely on one device for multiple functions.

Applications across industries

Wallet passes are proving their versatility across various industries:

  • Events and entertainment: Attendees use wallet passes for entry, VIP access, and even in-event purchases.
  • Corporate environments: Companies streamline employee access to buildings and secure areas.
  • Travel: Airlines and public transportation systems improve boarding and transit efficiency with wallet-based tickets.
  • Healthcare: Hospitals use wallet passes for visitor management and staff credentials.

The future of access control

As smartphone adoption continues to rise and digital ecosystems expand, wallet passes are expected to become the standard for access control. They offer a compelling combination of convenience, security, and adaptability, catering to the needs of businesses and users alike.

Whether you’re attending a concert, entering a workplace, or boarding a plane, wallet passes are reshaping how we think about access - making it smarter, safer, and simpler.

By embracing wallet passes, organisations are not just improving access control but also setting the stage for a more connected and sustainable future.