HID Global and RFI Pilot Use of Smartphones and Gesture Technology for Enterprise Access Control

HID Global announced that it has completed its second successful mobile access control pilot with RFI Communications & Security Systems at Netflix, the world's leading Internet subscription service for enjoying TV series and films.  For the latest project, pilot participants used the HID Mobile Access solution on a variety of Samsung and Apple smartphones with Bluetooth Smart communications channels, and utilized HID Global’s patented “Twist and Go” gesture technology as a new, more convenient way to open doors.

“We were pleased with the results of our initial pilot in 2012 with HID Global and RFI, which validated the benefits of mobile access control for physical enterprise security,” said Amy Dee, director of procurement and facilities with Netflix.  “Our latest 2014 project really illustrates how far mobile access control has come over the last couple of years. The HID Mobile IDs and HID Mobile Access App are extremely easy to use, and HID Global’s mobile-enabled readers meet all the needs of our demanding enterprise environment. We also found that the HID Secure Identity Services portal is easy to use, making identity management a very simple and secure process.”

A key element of the 2014 pilot was the use of Bluetooth Smart, whereas NFC was the only short-range communication technology available for mobile access control during the 2012 Netflix pilot. Adding support for Bluetooth Smart enables mobile access control to be used with popular smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices, without the need for accessories. Bluetooth Smart also delivers a longer connection range, which, coupled with HID Global’s patented “Twist and Go” gesture technology, makes it possible to open doors and gates while driving or walking up to a mobile-enabled reader by simply rotating the smartphone.

Powered by Seos, the HID Mobile Access solution worked seamlessly with the existing Netflix access control system from AMAG, and HID Global’s mobile-enabled iCLASS SE readers delivered maximum flexibility by enabling participants to use Mobile IDs as well as their existing HID Prox keyfobs and MicroProx Tags.

“HID Global has established a true ecosystem for mobile access control that, in turn, has created the opportunity for partners like RFI to enter new markets where we can deliver important new capabilities and customer value,” said Brad J. Wilson, CPP, president and COO, RFI Enterprises, Inc. “As an HID Advantage Platinum Partner, it has been extremely valuable working with HID Global on this ground-breaking pilot. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with a company that has great vision and the critical ability to anticipate and help lead industry developments that require the highest levels of trust and authentication.”

According to Adrian Noriega, the RFI field project manager who installed HID Mobile Access for the Netflix pilot, the HID Mobile Access Configuration Application was used to configure the Bluetooth Smart portion of the iCLASS SE reader so that users could either tap their smartphone to it or rotate (twist) the device as they approached it. Installing the HID Mobile Access App on participants’ phones was also quick and trouble-free.

“Once participants received the invitation code, they were able to use the App with ease,” Noriega said. “Also, having the ability to use the ‘Twist and Go’ feature was very convenient for pilot participants. This solution really represents technology at its best, and the next step in security and convenience for access control.”

“This pilot demonstrated the benefits of HID Mobile Access while also highlighting our ongoing commitment to valued HID Advantage Partners like RFI, which is ranked #16 on the 2014 SDM Magazine 100 Report,” said Debra Spitler, vice president, Strategic Alliances with HID Global. “Our customers and partners are both vitally important to us as we work to innovate what’s next in secure identities, and to bring new products, solutions and services to market.”

Featured

  • Collaboration Made Easy Using a Work Management Platform

    Effective collaboration between security operators, teams and other departments is critical to the smooth functioning of organizations. Yet, as organizations grow in complexity, it becomes more difficult for teams to coordinate with each other. This is compounded by staffing shortages, turnover and ineffective collaboration tools. Read Now

  • Creating a Safer World

    Managing and supporting locks and door hardware within a facility is a big responsibility. A building’s security needs to change over time as occupancy and use demands evolve, which can make it even more challenging. Read Now

  • Creating More Versatility

    Today, AI has become top of mind for most security professionals. It is the topic of conversation in the technology world and continues to transform the way data is used to make important business decisions. Read Now

  • Report: 78 Percent of CISOs Seeing Significant Impact from AI-Powered Cyber Threats

    Darktrace recently unveiled its 2025 State of AI Cybersecurity report. The findings reveal that 78% of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) surveyed say that AI-powered threats are having a significant impact on their organizations, a 5% increase1 from 2024. While an increasing number of CISOs report feeling a significant impact from AI threats, more than 60% now say that they are adequately prepared to defend against these threats, an increase of nearly 15% year-over-year. However, insufficient AI knowledge and skills and a shortage of personnel and talent continue to be listed as the two top inhibitors to a successful defense. Read Now

New Products

  • ComNet CNGE6FX2TX4PoE

    The ComNet cost-efficient CNGE6FX2TX4PoE is a six-port switch that offers four Gbps TX ports that support the IEEE802.3at standard and provide up to 30 watts of PoE to PDs. It also has a dedicated FX/TX combination port as well as a single FX SFP to act as an additional port or an uplink port, giving the user additional options in managing network traffic. The CNGE6FX2TX4PoE is designed for use in unconditioned environments and typically used in perimeter surveillance.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.