Are mobile access solutions worth it

The global Mobile Access Control is expected to reach $13.1 billion by 2026 from $8.6 billion in 2021, at a CAGR of 8.7%. The increasing demand for electronic security devices and the rising application of mobile access control solutions in various industries such as healthcare, retail, and educational institutes are the major factors driving the growth of this market. However, the high cost of integrating solutions with physical access control devices and limited awareness about its benefits are some key factors restraining the growth of this market.

The Importance of Mobile Access Control

Smartphones and tablets have allowed us to redefine how we connect with customers and meet their needs. In today's 24/7 economy, it's not enough to be reachable; you need to be able to respond quickly to questions, feedback, and complaints. With a robust mobile device strategy in place, you can provide your customers with convenience, exceptional service, and peace of mind. Mobile technology has also provided businesses with greater flexibility when managing employees who work off-site or on the go. From providing virtual office space to enabling more efficient scheduling and collaboration, mobile technology is changing what an employee's office looks like—and how accessible they are.

Mobile access control (MAC) is a large market that's been recently growing at an exponential rate. There are many different segments within MAC, including a host of various industries that have adopted MAC for their operations. But which markets will MAC be adopted first, and why do those industries favor using it over traditional security solutions?

Countries with Highest Mobile Access Control Adoption

Currently, APAC regions are the fastest-growing adopters of mobile access. Rapid technological advancements are expected from North American markets in the forecasted adoption of mobile access control. Smartphones remain wildly popular in these countries due to a well-established cellular network and high levels of smartphone ownership among consumers (more than 80% penetration rates in each country). After years of slow growth, analysts predict that sales will reach $23 billion by 2016.

Penetration Rates of Emerging Markets

Emerging markets have had little to no exposure to physical security systems, but that is rapidly changing. From Asia to Africa and South America, cities like Jakarta (Indonesia), New Delhi (India), and Buenos Aires (Argentina) continue to rise as hubs for technology adoption. While penetration rates in these regions are still low compared to North American and European cities, they're proliferating. This growth means increased demand for access control solutions such as card readers and biometric readers, which can be deployed at a fraction of the cost of traditional door locks and keypads.

Are smaller companies also embracing mobile access?

Surprisingly, it is not just large organizations that are early adopters of mobile access; even small- to medium-sized businesses have begun utilizing these systems. As more affordable mobile devices become available, smaller organizations will also adopt them. It's just that some smaller organizations need to be made aware of the significance of the protection of sensitive information and how mobile access can assist in safeguarding against security breaches.

So, will all this speed up digitalization?

The study forecasts that by 2025, over six million digital systems will be in operation globally for public administration (including central and local government). This is set to increase efficiency, reduce costs and make public services more accessible. Three technologies will dominate: the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing and artificial intelligence.

In an ideal world, organizations would be able to afford to replace all their card-based and biometric access systems with secure mobile solutions. However, for a variety of reasons—primarily financial—many businesses do not see a need to go that route yet. But as secure wireless connections become more prevalent and bring down infrastructure costs, it seems likely that we will see an increasing number of new companies adopting these systems in lieu of traditional physical controls. The question is which market sectors will lead in terms of adoption rate.