Smart Locks: The Future of Hospitality is knocking at your door
Have you ever watched a guest struggle with a key card, sighing in frustration as they try to unlock their room? In 2025, those days are officially over.
The hospitality tech revolution is here
According to the "Hospitality in 2025" study by Oracle and Skift, more than 60% of hotel managers worldwide expect that fully contactless experiences — including check-in/out, room keys, and payment — will become the industry standard within the next three years. Additionally, the study found that 73% of travelers are more likely to choose hotels that offer self-service technologies to minimize contact with staff and other guests.
And it's not just a trend — it's a strategic move that's transforming guest experiences and hotel operations.
Articles
May 8, 2025
Why Smart Locks are more than just a tech upgrade
Smart locks aren't just about replacing traditional keys. They're about creating seamless, memorable guest experiences. Imagine this:
Guests check in online
They receive a digital key directly to their smartphone — without downloading an extra app
They walk straight to their room and unlock it instantly
No waiting, no hassle.
The real benefits beyond convenience
1. Operational efficiency in challenging times
In an era of staffing shortages, smart locks represent a technological lifeline for hotels. They enable properties to automate routine check-in processes, freeing up staff to focus on meaningful guest interactions rather than getting stuck in administrative tasks. By reducing manual workload, smart locks allow your team to provide more personalized service and concentrate on what truly matters—creating exceptional guest experiences.
2. Enhanced security
Digital locks have revolutionized access management by eliminating the risks associated with traditional key systems. Instead of physical keys that can be lost or duplicated, smart locks offer encrypted access credentials that can be instantly managed, modified, or revoked. Hotel managers can now precisely control access for staff, maintenance teams, and guests, ensuring a level of security that was impossible with traditional key systems.
3. New revenue streams
Smart locks are transforming from a mere technological upgrade to a strategic business tool. Properties can now create innovative revenue opportunities by offering paid upgrades like early check-in, tiered access to special amenities, and personalized experiences that were previously difficult to implement. These digital solutions allow hotels to monetize convenience and create additional value for guests.
Simplify Smart Lock Integration with Like Magic
Like Magic integrates directly with leading smart lock providers — no PMS connection needed. Staff manage keys directly from the Like Magic Backoffice, reducing manual processes and enhancing operational efficiency.
Bonus:
Integration with energy management systems to automatically reduce lighting and heating when guests leave their rooms
Remote room access management for housekeeping and maintenance
Make the most of your smart door locks
If you’re already using smart locks, here are some ways to maximise your benefits:
Integrate with energy systems: Smart locks are even more effective when they’re part of a larger system. Like Magic enables connection with energy systems, automatically turning off lights and heating when guests leave their rooms to save energy and reduce costs.
Offer upgrades and add-ons: Smart locks open new upsell opportunities. With Like Magic, guests can pay for extras like early check-in or access to special areas and add-on amenities—all from their phones.
Control access: Manage digital keys for housekeeping and maintenance staff, issuing them only as needed and ensuring secure, controlled access.
Remote opening for staff: Enable staff members to unlock specific rooms, doors, or areas from their mobile device or a central dashboard — without needing to physically
Future-Proofing Your Smart Lock Investment
Smart move, but keep these tips in mind:
Conduct regular security checks
Ensure backup connectivity options
Plan for battery maintenance
Implement transparent data privacy policies
The Bottom Line
Smart locks are more than a technology upgrade—they're a strategic investment in guest experience, operational efficiency, and competitive differentiation.
Ready to unlock the future of hospitality? Book a demo with Like Magic and see how we can transform your property's access management.
Technology evolves fast. Stay curious, stay adaptable.
Works
The operations & guest experience platform is all about modular and interface-open architecture. Its maximum flexibility allows the smooth integration of top-notch solutions: easy and seamless.