Digital Keys
Digital Keys, founded in 2011, provides end-to-end 5G IoT smart access control — cellular-connected padlocks, doorlocks, and deadbolts with cloud software and APIs — serving utilities, hospitality, healthcare, commercial offices, logistics, and residential customers across roughly 40 countries.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded2011
- HeadquartersColumbus, United States
- Headcount1–10
- GTM typeB2B
- OfferingHardware or Manufacturing
What Digital Keys does
Digital Keys is a privately-held hardware-plus-software vendor founded in 2011 that sells end-to-end 5G IoT smart access control systems. The product line includes a smart padlock ($149), doorlock latch ($239), mortise doorlock, and a deadbolt retrofit, all integrating built-in SIM cards that connect over NB-IoT and LTE-M mobile networks via the 1NCE virtual operator, giving out-of-the-box coverage in roughly 40 countries without Wi-Fi, hubs, or onsite power. The Accessive cloud platform (hosted on AWS) and a Swagger-documented API at api.digitalkeys.io handle digital-key provisioning, role-based access, live event auditing, GPS/GNSS asset mapping, and integrated tampering alerts. Five unlock modes — mobile-app digital keys, time-sensitive PINs, NFC cards, remote software unlock, and metal-key override — are supported across the line, with hardware carrying IP67, CE, FCC, and RoHS certifications.
Go-to-market is a hybrid direct/partner model: a sales-led enterprise motion with API-first integrations; OEM/whitelabel embedding through SAG Lock Manufacturers in Germany (the SAFE-O-TRONIC system); and channel resale via TOPdigital Group's 40-store Spanish network. Distribution is complemented by an app-store self-serve funnel with a 6-month free tier to drive SMB adoption in hospitality and short-term rental use cases.
The company monetizes through a mix of one-time hardware sales ($149-$239) and recurring subscriptions: $3/month per lock for the SIM/connectivity bundle and $3-$5 per lock per month for cloud asset-management software in Standard and Premium tiers, plus custom Enterprise contracts with private cloud hosting. Verticals served include utilities/critical infrastructure, hospitality, education, commercial offices, logistics/shipping, real estate, and healthcare, with named deployments spanning Vodafone (5G lab, Netherlands), SAG OEM hotels (Germany/Netherlands), multiple electricity companies using smart padlocks against copper theft, and Holy Name Medical Center (NJ) for patient-belongings security. The company is small (1-10 employees), has raised roughly $155K in disclosed funding across 13 years, has no revenue disclosure, and headquarters data is inconsistent (website indicates a Melbourne, Australia base versus firmographic listing of Columbus, US). Leadership comprises CEO/co-founder Stephen Dunn and principal John Hossli.
Digital Keys firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- Digital Keys
- Legal name
- Digital Keys
- Website
- https://digitalkeys.io
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 2011
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 1–10 employees
- Short description
- Digital Keys, founded in 2011, provides end-to-end 5G IoT smart access control — cellular-connected padlocks, doorlocks, and deadbolts with cloud software and APIs — serving utilities, hospitality, healthcare, commercial offices, logistics, and residential customers across roughly 40 countries.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
Digital Keys industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Smart Access Control Hardware
- NAICS
- Security Systems Services (except Locksmiths) (561621), Locksmiths (561622)
- SIC
- Measuring & Controlling Devices, Nec (3829)
- akta.pro primary industry
- Residential Smart Lock Hardware (Keypad, Keyless, Biometric, Connected) (HSAHAEAA)
- akta.pro secondary industries
- Smart Lock Software Platforms & Mobile Apps (Access Control SaaS) (HSAHAEAG), Remote Access, Guest & Temporary Credential Management (Airbnb/Short-Term Rental) (HSAHAEAF), Home Security & Access Control (Cameras, Alarms, Smart Locks) (HSAPAQAB), Physical Security, Access Control & Visitor Management (HSAPAPAD), Fleet Access & Keyless Systems (Digital Keys, Telematics-Enabled Access Control) (TLABALAI)
Keywords
Where Digital Keys is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Columbus
- HQ country
- United States
- HQ region
- North America
Offices1 record
Markets served
Digital Keys business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B
- Offering type
- Hardware or Manufacturing
- Cost components
- Technology or R&D, Supply Chain, Infrastructure, Personnel, Marketing or Sales, Operations
Revenue model
- Hardware Sales: Sale of 5G IoT smart locks including Smart Padlock ($149), Smart Doorlock Latch 1 ($239), Smart Doorlock Mortise 1 (POA), and Smart Deadbolt. Hardware includes built-in SIM cards and comes with accessories.
- Software Subscriptions (Accessive Asset Management): Monthly/annual subscription for cloud-based asset management software. Standard tier at $3/month (annual) or $6/month (monthly), Premium at $5/month (annual) or $9/month (monthly), Enterprise custom pricing. First 6 months free. Includes unlimited data on Global Mobile-IoT Network.
- SIM/Connectivity Service: Monthly connectivity service at $3 per month ($36 per annum) includes in-built SIM card with unlimited data on 30 mobile networks in 40 countries. First 6 months free with hardware purchase.
- API/Integration Services: Premium and Enterprise tiers include API access with unlimited calls for integrating smart access features into customer software systems.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Subscription | Annual | Standard Plan - $3/smartlock/month (billed annually) or $6/month (billed monthly) |
| Subscription | Annual | Premium Plan - $5/smartlock/month (billed annually) or $9/month (billed monthly) |
| Subscription | Multi-year contract | Enterprise Plan - Contact Sales |
| Unit Pricing | Monthly | WANlock 5G IoT Smart Padlock - $149 USD |
| Unit Pricing | Monthly | 5G IoT Smart Doorlock Latch 1 - $239 USD |
| Unit Pricing | Monthly | 5G IoT Smart Doorlock Mortise 1 - Price on Application |
Go-to-market motion3 records
Distribution channels6 records
Marketing channels9 records
Digital Keys product offering
Product offeringCore offering
Digital Keys designs, manufactures, and sells a 5G IoT smart access control system consisting of cellular-connected smart locks (padlock, doorlock latch, doorlock mortise, and deadbolt) with in-built SIM cards that operate over NB-IoT and LTE-M mobile networks in 40+ countries. The hardware is bundled with the Accessive cloud-based asset management software platform, iOS/Android mobile apps, and an open REST API, enabling remote unlocking, time-sensitive digital key generation, tamper detection, GPS tracking, and integration with property management, booking, and task scheduling systems.
Product overview
Digital Keys offers a comprehensive 5G IoT smart access control system consisting of four hardware products (Smart Padlock, Smart Doorlock Latch 1, Smart Doorlock Mortise 1, and Smart Deadbolt), the Accessive cloud-based asset management software platform, and Digital Keys mobile apps for iOS and Android. All products connect via in-built SIM cards over NB-IoT/LTE-M cellular networks in 40+ countries without requiring Wi-Fi or onsite infrastructure. The system supports 5 unlocking methods including digital keys app, time-sensitive PIN codes, NFC cards, remote software unlock, and metal key override. Accessories include NFC cards, rings, padlock holders, and batteries.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Products and services
- WANlock 5G IoT Smart Padlock Weatherproof smart padlock with in-built 5G IoT SIM card, IP67 waterproof rating, five unlocking methods (digital keys app, time-sensitive PIN codes, NFC cards/tags, remote software unlock, and metal key override), accelerometer-based tampering alarms with instant notifications, and GPS/GNSS tracking. Sold to enterprises and SMBs across utilities, logistics, hospitality, healthcare, and residential markets.
- 5G IoT Smart Doorlock Latch 1 Single latch smart doorlock with zinc alloy casing, in-built 5G IoT SIM card, IP67 waterproof rating, and five opening methods (digital keys app, PIN codes, NFC cards, remote software unlock, and metal key override). Designed for residential, hospitality, and commercial office deployments requiring easy installation and cellular connectivity.
- 5G IoT Smart Doorlock Mortise 1 Smart mortise doorlock with zinc alloy casing, in-built 5G IoT SIM card, IP67 waterproof rating, shock and drop resistance, and five unlocking methods. Compatible with EU or ANSI mortise standards (three types available), built for hospitality, commercial, and residential customers that require premium-grade cellular-connected door locks.
- 5G IoT Smart Deadbolt Retrofit deadbolt attachment that installs over existing deadbolts without changing locks, featuring five opening methods, in-built SIM card, accelerometer-based tampering alarms with live event notifications, and approximately two years of battery life from lithium thionyl batteries. Targeted at residential, hospitality, and small commercial deployments.
- Accessive Asset Management Software Cloud-based asset management platform hosted on AWS that lets administrators manage smart locks, generate and revoke digital keys, remotely unlock, manage users with role-based access control, view live event tracking and tamper alerts, and integrate via API. Sold as a recurring subscription to enterprise and SMB customers in utilities, hospitality, commercial, healthcare, and logistics.
- Digital Keys Mobile App iOS and Android mobile application that displays digital keys in a wallet-style interface, supports NFC and network-based unlocking of smart locks, and enables end-users to manage access to multiple Digital Keys smart locks from their phone. Distributed via Apple App Store and Google Play.
Quantifiable outcome
- Saves $600/month in locksmith costs per resort (Aruba Beach Resort case study)
- +5 more outcomes
Companies that use Digital Keys
Customer profileNamed customers7 records
Segments8 records
Ideal customer profiles5 records
Digital Keys technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- Yes
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Integration3 records
AI capability4 records
Feature10 records
Digital Keys partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
Nine partnerships are on record, tiered strategic and core.
- Sateliot LtdstrategicSateliot is building satellite IoT connectivity using low-earth orbit cubesat satellites (under 10kg) to extend 5G IoT coverage to remote areas and sea where cellular networks don't reach. Enables Digital Keys smart locks on shipping containers to maintain connectivity globally.
- 1NCEcore1NCE is a Virtual Mobile Network Operator providing IoT connectivity services. Digital Keys includes 1NCE SIM cards in all smart locks with unlimited data connectivity on 30 mobile networks in 40 countries through roaming agreements.
- Amazon Web Services (AWS)coreDigital Keys IoT platform is hosted on AWS cloud infrastructure globally. AWS provides secure, reliable cloud environment meeting local data retention laws and privacy regulations across 40+ regions.
- EricssonstrategicEricsson is a key network infrastructure partner supporting 5G IoT connectivity. Digital Keys smart locks utilize Ericsson IoT technology and their global network infrastructure enables NB-IoT/LTE-M connectivity.
- GSMAstrategicGSMA (mobile industry association) provides security guidelines and deployment standards for 5G IoT networks. Digital Keys adheres to GSMA IoT Security Guidelines and references GSMA reports for technology validation.
- VodafonecoreVodafone provides NB-IoT network connectivity and has deployed Digital Keys smart access at their 5G lab in Groningen. Vodafone is a global IoT leader with 100+ million IoT connections across 30 countries.
- TOPdigital GroupcoreTOPdigital Group headquartered in Malaga, Spain develops software and distributes Digital Keys products to retail, offices, banks, and hotels across Spain with 40 stores. Custom Spanish-language software and local hosting developed.
- SAG Lock Manufacturers (Schulte Schlagbaum AG)coreSAG is a 180+ year old German lock manufacturer integrating Digital Keys NB-IoT technology into their SAFE-O-TRONIC access system. Enables SAG to offer digital keys, PIN codes, and mobile app unlocking alongside their existing RFID locks.
- Holy Name Medical CenterstrategicNew Jersey hospital partnering with Digital Keys to implement smart padlocks for securing patient belongings. API integration with Electronic Health Record systems to transmit patient-chosen PIN codes to padlocks.
Scale indicators6 records
Recent moves6 records
Expansion highlights6 records
Digital Keys competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- Latch: Smart access platform focused on multifamily residential and commercial buildings with software-led delivery and recurring SaaS revenue. Comparable business model combining smart hardware, cloud software, and enterprise integrations.
- Kisi: Cloud-managed physical access control platform for offices and commercial buildings with mobile credentials and API integrations. Comparable business model focused on access control SaaS with developer-first integration approach.
- RemoteLock: Cloud-based access control platform supporting smart locks across multiple brands for vacation rental, commercial, and residential use cases. Direct overlap with Digital Keys' property management and hospitality focus.
- Brivo: Cloud-based access control SaaS platform serving commercial real estate, multifamily, and enterprise. Comparable in offering cloud-managed smart access with API integrations, mobile credentials, and a subscription revenue model.
- Igloohome: Singapore-based smart lock company focused on short-term rental, hospitality, and property management use cases. Most directly comparable to Digital Keys given shared emphasis on Airbnb/holiday rental self check-in, PIN code generation, and offline-capable smart locks.
- Nuki Home Solutions: European smart lock maker (Austria) providing retrofit and integrated smart locks with API integrations and partner programs. Comparable product/market overlap in residential and hospitality, with similar emphasis on developer APIs and channel partnerships.
Broad incumbents
- Salto Systems: Established electronic access control vendor with broad portfolio of smart locks for hospitality, commercial, and education. Comparable as incumbent competitor in the same access control category, particularly relevant given Digital Keys' SAG partnership in Europe.
- Assa Abloy / Yale: Global lock and access control conglomerate owning Yale, VingCard, and August smart lock brands. Represents the dominant incumbent competitor across residential and hospitality segments with vastly greater distribution and brand recognition.
- Onity / Saflok: Hospitality-focused electronic lock vendor (Onity, Saflok) acquired by Assa Abloy/UTC. Direct overlap with Digital Keys' hotel use case including self check-in and PMS integrations, serving as a scaled incumbent alternative.
- Allegion / Schlage: Major lock manufacturer (Schlage, Von Duprin, LCN) with smart lock product lines including Schlage Encode and Engage. Comparable as established smart lock competitor with broad North American distribution and commercial channels.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat5 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights6 records
Customer concentration
Digital Keys social profiles
Digital presenceDigital Keys compliance and trust
Trust signalCompliance8 records
Digital Keys financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Digital Keys leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles2 records
Digital Keys funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds4 records
Investors3 records
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Digital Keys M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about Digital Keys
What does Digital Keys do?
Digital Keys designs, manufactures, and sells a 5G IoT smart access control system consisting of cellular-connected smart locks (padlock, doorlock latch, doorlock mortise, and deadbolt) with in-built SIM cards that operate over NB-IoT and LTE-M mobile networks in 40+ countries. The hardware is bundled with the Accessive cloud-based asset management software platform, iOS/Android mobile apps, and an open REST API, enabling remote unlocking, time-sensitive digital key generation, tamper detection, GPS tracking, and integration with property management, booking, and task scheduling systems.
Is Digital Keys a public or private company?
Digital Keys is a private company. It is classified as founder individual operated bootstrapped and is currently operating.
When was Digital Keys founded?
Digital Keys was founded in 2011. It employs 1 to 10 people.
Where is Digital Keys based?
Digital Keys is headquartered in Columbus, United States, in the North America region.
How does Digital Keys make money?
Four revenue lines are on record. Hardware Sales are the primary driver. The others are software Subscriptions (Accessive Asset Management), SIM/Connectivity Service and API/Integration Services.
Who are Digital Keys's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are Latch, Kisi, RemoteLock, Brivo, Igloohome and Nuki Home Solutions. Broad incumbents are Salto Systems, Assa Abloy / Yale, Onity / Saflok and Allegion / Schlage.
Does Digital Keys have an API?
Yes. The Digital Keys API offers modules for remote lock management, digital key generation and revocation, custom access schedules, user management with role-based access control, and detailed event logging with real-time notifications. The API supports NB-IoT and LTE-M networks and allows developers to integrate smart access control features into their own software and apps. Available via Swagger UI at api.digitalkeys.io/swagger-ui/index.html. Standard plan includes API access; Premium plan offers unlimited API calls. Developer documentation is at api.digitalkeys.io/swagger-ui/index.html.
What industry is Digital Keys in?
Digital Keys's product category is Smart Access Control Hardware. Its primary akta.pro industry code is HSAHAEAA, Residential Smart Lock Hardware (Keypad, Keyless, Biometric, Connected), with a secondary code of HSAHAEAG, Smart Lock Software Platforms & Mobile Apps (Access Control SaaS). Its NAICS code is 561621 and its SIC code is 3829.