cell phone as room key issue
 

Now with virus considerations, hotels want fewer human interactions.
I was staying at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, I could have done an "automated" check-in, which would generate a room key on my cellphone--seemed like a "great" feature; EXCEPT should my cellphone battery become drained*, I would have NO access to my room.:td:
*this has been known to happen:rolleyes:

not a battery issue, but I attempted to use Marriott's key-on-phone at IAD a couple times last year and had nothing but problems ... NOT pleasant when checking in at 0130 after a two-hour-delayed arrival

These issues are why I always go to the desk and pick up an actual key alongside the mobile one.

I've used the digital key a few times at Hilton properties. There's a definite learning curve and I'll still usually use the key card. It's nice having the additional option, though.

I forgot to add, in Bellagio you need an active "key" to use the elevator--a double whammy if you have cellphone issues.

so?

what if you had a normal key and lost it? or it became demagnetized?

they arent forcing you to have smartphone key and done away with the front desk, have they?

I always request 2 keys, I keep them in separate pockets--both away from cellphones and other "magnetic" devices.
The + of check/in via cellphone is no waiting on lines, but since I have only ONE CP as I noted in my OP the minus of CP c/i.
I was an "invited" guest, so had special c/i.:tu:

And if it happens, surely you just then go to the reception desk and get a normal key? Really don’t understand what the issue is.

I work with beam accelerators all of which have gigantic magnets, the type that rip tools out of your hands.

I have my keycard in my pocket all the time.... never lost one yet.

In "normal" times there would be NO issue But the point of CP room keys was to avoid human interaction.
Casinos, like Bellagio, are built on the concept "big is better":D...distances between rooms and the front desk are HUGE--in addition the FD has minimal staff now.
For me, as noted up-thread, I had "special" c/i and opted for 2 "real" keys.

Once my keycard demagnetised and I had a very heavy package that i didn't want to risk leaving unattended while i went to the FD for another key, so i just called the FD on my phone to request for one to be brought to me. It might have taken a bit of time but sure beats lugging my stuff down and up again!!!!

Carry around a lightweight power pack?

Modern keycards are mostly RFID based these days so won't be wiped by 'magnetic' devices.

As long as you don't carry your keycard around in an active microwave oven you're fine! :)

How was your experience otherwise? Heading out in August....just read a few days ago in an email from MGM about the 7 steps to keep us safer protocols and this option. Flying from the east and late check in...so wondering if I need to pack extra little battery chargers for my iPhone. thought about getting the battery pack that fits like a case on it.

I think about 50% of the rooms were occupied, but there were lots of people. The staff all wore face masks, not many others. At Bellagio about 1/3 of the restaurants were open, and in slot banks, machines < 6 feet apart every other slot was operating. I'm guessing that by August a lot more casinos will re-open, reducing the crowds that are there now. [Center strip Bellagio, Caesars Palace and Harrah's are the only ones now open.] I had a good time! Re room keys, while Cellphone keys are nice, getting real room keys is better.