Siemens is harnessing Apple Wallet to improve mobile access for buildings.

Using technology from Swiss firm Legic, the offering lets people use Apple devices to enter buildings faster by tapping a compatible card reader.

The mobile access offering for Siemens Building X Security Manager is based on Apple Wallet and a collaboration with credential management and access security firm Legic. By integrating Legic Connect, a software service for the creation and distribution of mobile credentials to smart devices, into the Siemens application, users can enjoy a seamless connection to Apple Wallet.

Security Manager is a cloud-based application to manage access control in buildings. It is an extension of the existing Siemens Building X Security Manager app and lets users conveniently and securely use their Apple devices – such as iPhone or Apple Watch – to enter buildings faster by tapping a compatible card reader.

Apple Wallet is an app that organises credit, debit and identity cards, keys, and more. Once badges are activated, users can hold their device near a door’s NFC-enabled lock to access secured areas. With Express Mode, they don’t need to unlock their device to use their badge in Apple Wallet. If an iPhone needs to be charged, people can still access buildings for up to five hours with Power Reserve.

For building owners and security managers, Apple Wallet provides a trusted and secure platform for mobile credentials as stored directly on the devices, including built-in privacy and security features of iPhones and Apple Watches. At the same time, it increases the efficiency and sustainability of building access by eliminating the need to open an app or present a traditional, plastic access key.

“By collaborating with Apple and Legic, our Building X customers can enhance their experience when entering buildings,” said Rahul Chillar, executive vice president at Siemens. “They will benefit from a streamlined access method that feels as natural as using their device for payments, leveraging a familiar and intuitive interface. We will also be using it for our own Siemens’ buildings.”

Building X (xcelerator.siemens.com/global/en/products/buildings/building-x.html) is a digital building platform that helps users digitalise, manage and optimise their building operations. This leads to an enhanced user experience, increased performance and improved sustainability. It is part of Siemens Xcelerator, an open digital business platform that helps users accelerate their digital transformation.

Together with Legic (www.legic.com), Siemens (www.siemens.com) will showcase the Building X Security Manager integration into Apple Wallet at this week’s Intersec (intersec.ae.messefrankfurt.com/dubai/en.html) fair in Dubai.