I stayed at the HGI T-2 LHR this week, and tried to use the digital key. I was able to check in via the app, and was notified when the digital key was ready. On arrival at the hotel I attempted to use the digital key which was necessary for both the lift, and my room. Neither worked, so I headed back to front desk to ask about it. I was told that the digital key only works on the local wi-fi at the hotel, and was encouraged to log into the HHONORS wi-fi. Is that normal that the door key only works with the hotel wi-fi? I could not find anything about that on the Hilton site explaining about the digital key.

Also I've got questions about sharing the key: I have read about how to share the key, but it appears that the person receiving the shared key link must have the Hilton app, and be logged into their own acct. I will be traveling with someone who is not a Hilton person, and does not have their own acct. Is this the only way to share the digital key?