Last Updated on: 22nd November 2023, 11:55 am
In today’s digital era, the widespread use of smartphones and wearables for various purposes, including building access, has become increasingly common. One such innovation is Apple Wallet integration for mobile access, which allows iPhone users to use their digital access cards and employee badges stored within their Apple Wallet for building entry. While this promises a seamless user experience, it is important to consider the associated costs and challenges, particularly when integrating with legacy hardware and existing access control systems.
Reader and Firmware Upgrade Costs
Apple Wallet integration for mobile access is limited to approved lock or reader manufacturers with NFC readers already in their product portfolio. Consequently, older access control hardware and infrastructure may require updates or replacements to support this integration. Readers manufactured prior to 2016/17 may have compatibility issues with Apple Wallet. This could affect a significant portion of currently active readers.
To prepare a preliminary budget, it’s essential to assess the number and age of readers at your site. Upgrading hardware and installation costs can range from $1,000 or more per door, depending on local labor rates. For instance, upgrading 20-30 NFC-enabled readers in a multi-use building could cost between $20,000 and $30,000. Additionally, consider potential disruptions during the upgrade process, including phasing in departments, employee training, and implementing new apps.
If firmware updates can be performed on-site, integration may require labor from an integrator to avoid warranty issues. Typically, this process involves a two-person job, one at the reader and another at the command and control center.
A more cost-effective alternative is provided by companies like Sentry Interactive, which allows you to retain functioning legacy readers by using a software upgrade at the host. This solution avoids the need for a complete “rip and replace” of hardware and leverages the NFC technology in users’ mobile devices for secure access.
Comparing Integration Costs
When using Apple Wallet for access control, each building typically requires its own Apple key, even if the same type of reader is used. This can increase complexity and system costs, particularly when dealing with mixed reader types. Custom integrations for each building may cost between $10,000 and $20,000, excluding labor costs for reader firmware updates and software adjustments.
Furthermore, coordinating with reader manufacturers and authorised integration partners is necessary. As you scale the integration across multiple buildings, costs and complexities increase. Streamlined solutions like Sentry Mobile Access offer integrated support for both Apple and Android users, simplifying management and reducing costs.
Estimated Apple Wallet Implementation Costs
Consider the following costs associated with Apple Wallet integration:
- Apple License: Approximately $3 per user per month.
- Seat License: Approximately $6 per user per year.
- New hardware and installation costs: $1,000+ per door.
- Software SSO infrastructure (cost varies per device).
- Facility credential management costs (varies by provider).
For example, if a company with 1,000 users plans to implement Apple Wallet, with 53% using iPhones:
- Apple License: 530 users x $3/user/month x 12 months = $19,080 annually.
- Seat License: 530 users x $6/user = $3,180 annually.
- New hardware: 20-30 NFC-enabled readers + installation cost: $20,000 – $30,000.
This totals $42,260 – $52,260 in the first year, which is a substantial cost for providing Apple Wallet access to just 53% of users. Additional costs may apply if Android wallet access is needed.
Sentry Interactive offers NFC mobile access for both iOS and Android users without requiring additional hardware installation or firmware upgrades, resulting in cost savings and a user-friendly experience.
Broad-Scale Adoption
To ensure widespread usability and efficiency in access control, decisions should align with user preferences. While Apple Wallet is popular, its global user base is smaller than that of Android. For international enterprises, where Android devices dominate, alternatives that cater to both iPhone and Android users may be more practical.
In conclusion, businesses have different needs and budgets. Exploring cost-effective solutions that provide NFC mobile access for both iPhone and Android users without extensive hardware upgrades is a wise approach. Contact us to discuss your requirements and explore alternative options available to meet your access control needs efficiently and cost-effectively.
