Imagine walking into your favorite coworking space, phone in hand, ready to kickstart your workday. You're probably wondering: could Apple Wallet help you access your office at WeWork? With digital wallets becoming an integral part of how we shop and pay, it's natural to think about their potential for other uses, like entering your workspace.
In this post, we'll explore the potential and limitations of using Apple Wallet for WeWork access, look at your options, and help determine what's best for your daily routine.
Understanding Apple Wallet
Apple Wallet is a versatile digital hub that goes beyond storing credit cards. It consolidates your boarding passes, event tickets, loyalty cards, and more into one convenient location. As of 2025, Apple Pay has approximately 65.6 million active U.S. users, illustrating its widespread adoption. This popularity is due in part to the iPhone's prevalence and the wide acceptance of Apple Pay among retailers. With 57% of U.S. adults using digital wallets by 2024, the convenience and security of digital transactions are clear.
Given this, you might think Apple Wallet could also manage building access. But when it comes to physically unlocking doors at places like WeWork, this functionality isn't available yet.
Exploring Traditional Access Cards
On the other hand, traditional access cards remain the standard method for entering places like WeWork. These cards are swiped or tapped at entrances to allow access. While they might not have the high-tech appeal of digital wallets, they are practical and widely used. You may even carry your access card behind your phone case for easy access, creating the illusion of phone-based entry. At WeWork, you can request a cardholder necklace at the front desk to keep your access card within reach.
Key Differences in Access Methods
The primary difference between Apple Wallet and traditional access cards lies in their technology and functionality. While Apple Wallet offers digital convenience, it doesn't yet have the capability to unlock physical doors at coworking spaces like WeWork. In contrast, traditional access cards are specifically designed for this purpose, making them indispensable for members.
Additionally, digital wallets like Apple Wallet are primarily used for financial transactions. By 2024, they accounted for 32% of point-of-sale transactions globally. However, they haven't yet expanded into physical access solutions in environments like WeWork.
Pros & Cons
Benefits of Apple Wallet
- Convenience: Consolidates payment methods, tickets, and more in one place, accessible from your phone.
- Security: Protected by Face ID or Touch ID, adding a layer of security.
- Popularity: With 53% of Americans using digital wallets more frequently than traditional methods in 2023, Apple Wallet is a favored choice for payments.
Drawbacks of Apple Wallet
- Limited Functionality: Cannot be used for gaining access to WeWork or similar physical entry points.
- Battery Dependence: Your phone must be charged, or you risk losing access.
Advantages of Access Cards
- Purpose-Built Functionality: Specifically designed for secure building entry, like at WeWork.
- No Battery Required: Always operational, unlike mobile devices that need charging.
Disadvantages of Access Cards
- Physical Bulk: Easy to misplace or forget compared to a digital solution.
- Fewer Security Features: Lack the biometric security of digital wallets.
Making Your Choice
If your priority is ease and security for digital payments, Apple Wallet is unmatched. It simplifies managing your finances and enhances your shopping experience. However, for accessing WeWork or other coworking spaces, sticking with traditional access cards is necessary. Despite ongoing requests from WeWork members for digital solutions, no current updates support phone-based entry.
Consider Alex, an entrepreneur frequently visiting WeWork in New York City. Alex uses Apple Wallet for swift purchases but relies on a cardholder necklace for building access. This combination keeps Alex agile and ensures he isn't locked out due to a dead phone battery.
Conclusion
In our increasingly digital world, it might seem like everything should be connected to your phone. However, for accessing coworking spaces like WeWork, traditional access cards remain your best option. They offer reliability and practicality in these specific scenarios.
While Apple Wallet excels in digital transactions, it hasn't yet ventured into physical access solutions. Until that day comes, it's wise to keep your access card handy, perhaps tucked behind your phone case for convenience.
Next Steps
- For WeWork Access: Keep your access card in a convenient place. Consider using a cardholder necklace from the front desk.
- For Digital Transactions: Continue using Apple Wallet for payments and stay updated on any future functionalities.
- Stay Informed: Monitor announcements from WeWork or similar spaces about potential digital wallet integration.
You're now equipped with the insights to navigate your access options effectively. Stay practical, stay informed, and enjoy the best of both worlds—digital convenience and reliable, secure access.