Why More Hotel Brands Are Switching to NXP AES Chips for Their Key Cards

Why More Hotel Brands Are Switching to NXP AES Chips for Their Key Cards

In the hotel industry, security and guest experience are everything. Behind the scenes, many major hotel brands are now upgrading from legacy RFID key card technology to the new generation of NXP AES-based chips — the same technology used in secure payment and transit systems worldwide.

At Hotel & Resort Key Cards, we’re seeing this shift accelerate across the industry, and for good reason.

1. Legacy Chips Have Known Security Gaps

Older RFID key cards — like those based on outdated encryption algorithms — can be cloned or copied using inexpensive equipment. That means a lost or stolen card could be duplicated, creating unnecessary risk for hotels and guests alike. AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) chips eliminate this vulnerability with military-grade security.

2. AES Encryption Raises the Standard

NXP’s latest generation of key card chips, such as the MIFARE Ultralight AES, use 128-bit AES encryption and secure messaging to protect data exchanges between the card and the door lock.

• Cards are nearly impossible to clone.

• Communication between card and reader is encrypted end-to-end.

• Hotels gain stronger guest and staff access security.

This level of protection aligns with what global brands now expect for physical access control.

3. Backward Compatibility Makes Upgrading Easy

Many hotels assume a full system replacement is required to move to AES — it’s not. The new NXP chips maintain ISO 14443 compliance and are compatible with most existing RFID door lock systems once firmware is updated. Hotels can transition to AES cards gradually, replacing old stock as they reorder, with no disruption to operations.

4. Ideal for Multi-Credential Environments

Hotels are increasingly using RFID technology beyond room access — for parking, amenities, employee areas, and mobile integration. AES-based credentials allow all of these systems to be unified under a single, highly secure platform. It’s scalable and future-proof as brands continue expanding digital key programs.

5. Stronger Guest Trust and Brand Protection

Guests assume their hotel key is secure. When news breaks about cloned or hacked cards, brand confidence takes a hit. Moving to AES-encrypted credentials reinforces a brand’s reputation for guest safety and technological leadership — and reduces liability.

6. Sustainability and Durability

Newer AES chips are not only more secure but also more efficient and durable. Many are produced using lower-energy manufacturing processes and designed for longer lifespans, reducing card waste and replacement frequency.

7. Why Hotels Are Upgrading Now

• Major lock vendors are now releasing AES-compatible hardware.

• The cost difference between legacy and AES chips has narrowed significantly.

• Hotels are seeking future-proof credential systems that work with both physical and mobile keys.

• Security expectations from guests — and insurance providers — have never been higher.

The Bottom Line

The move to NXP AES technology represents the next generation of guest access security. It’s more secure, more flexible, and easier to implement than many hotels realize.

Contact us to learn more about AES-encrypted RFID key cards — and how to future-proof your property’s access control.