Canary Technologies Acquires OpenKey to Expand Mobile Keys

Hotel tech firm Canary Technologies acquires OpenKey, merging their platforms to create a dominant mobile key and AI-powered guest management system.

Hotel operations technology provider Canary Technologies has acquired OpenKey, a pioneer in mobile key solutions, in a strategic move to solidify its position as the leading platform for digital guest management. The deal, valued at approximately $85 million in cash and stock, aims to merge OpenKey's extensive integrations with door lock manufacturers with Canary's AI-driven front-desk and guest communication software.

The combined entity will offer hotels a comprehensive, end-to-end system. Guests will be able to check in digitally, receive a mobile key sent directly to their smartphone, and access AI-powered concierge services all before reaching their room. For hotel operators, this promises streamlined operations, reduced front-desk congestion, and richer guest data analytics.

"Integrating OpenKey's technology is a force multiplier," said the CEO of Canary Technologies. "We are now the only provider that can manage the entire digital guest journey from booking to checkout, with the mobile key as the seamless, secure centerpiece. This accelerates our vision of a fully contactless, intelligent hotel experience."

OpenKey's primary asset is its vast compatibility network with over 200 door lock brands and Hotel management systems (PMS). This immediately expands Canary's reach within existing hotel infrastructure, removing a major technical barrier to adoption. The acquisition also brings OpenKey's roster of major hotel chain clients into Canary's ecosystem.

Analysts view the merger as a consolidation play in the rapidly growing hotel tech sector, driven by rising demand for automation and mobile-centric services. It positions Canary to compete more directly with legacy PMS giants while pushing the industry standard toward fully integrated mobile solutions. The combined platform will leverage Canary's existing AI to personalize guest interactions and optimize upsell opportunities based on stay behavior.

All OpenKey employees are expected to join Canary. The companies will begin integrating their platforms immediately, with a unified product slated for release in Q3 2026.