AKSHITA | 2025-07-10 10:30:00+00:00
In the last few years, we’ve seen a huge shift in the way people enter offices, clinics, salons, and even schools. From writing names in dusty registers to scanning QR codes and typing OTPs on touchscreens, it’s clear that India has moved on from the old ‘gatekeeper with a pen’ routine.
But now that it’s 2025, one question is slowly popping up: Are QR codes and OTPs still the smartest way to manage contactless check-ins? Or are better options already knocking on the door?
Let’s take a closer look at how contactless check-ins are evolving, what’s working, what’s not, and what businesses should start thinking about next.
Until a few years ago, most places relied on manual entries. Visitors wrote their name, number, purpose of visit, and no one really checked if any of it was correct. Post-COVID, things changed fast. Safety, hygiene, and digital-first approaches became the new normal.
Enter QR codes and OTP-based sign-ins.
They were quick, contactless, and easy to implement. Visitors could just scan a code at the entrance or receive an OTP link to check in without touching pens or paper. It was perfect for the times. But now that things are more stable, and people are getting used to digital systems, new problems (and new expectations) are surfacing.
Let’s be fair, QR and OTP methods have helped a lot. Here’s why many businesses still love them:
Affordable to set up – No big investment, just print and paste QR codes or use a tablet with OTP integration.
Easy to use – Even first-time visitors can follow simple instructions.
Data accuracy – Entries are cleaner and easier to verify.
Time-saving – No need to wait in queues or talk to front desk staff.
Touchless & safe – Especially important in medical, food, and child-related spaces.
In short, they’ve made things more professional and smooth for both visitors and staff.
The issue isn’t that QR or OTP systems are bad, it’s that they’re starting to feel… limited.
People now see QR codes everywhere, restaurant tables, payment walls, event passes, Wi-Fi logins. Not everyone wants to keep scanning something just to enter a clinic or co-working space.
Many buildings or basements don’t have strong signals. So when a visitor has to receive an OTP but the message doesn’t arrive, it creates delays and frustration.
Some businesses use WhatsApp, some SMS, others have their own app. Visitors get confused or annoyed with multiple links and formats.
QR and OTP systems collect data, but they don’t offer a personalised experience. Returning visitors still have to go through the same steps every time.
Not all QR codes are safe. Fake codes, phishing links, or simple misuse of open entry links can become a problem if not monitored.
Let’s not say QR and OTPs are “dead.” They’ll still be useful in many cases. But smarter, faster, and more intuitive technologies are already emerging. Here's what’s coming next:
Touchless, instant, and impossible to fake. Facial recognition tech is growing rapidly in India, especially in corporate offices, gated communities, and airports.
Pros:
No phone or app required
Works instantly for repeat visitors
High on security
Cons:
Needs proper lighting & camera setup
May raise privacy concerns if not handled carefully
Using BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), visitors can be auto-detected near the entrance. The system checks them in if their phone is recognised.
Pros:
Seamless experience, no scanning needed
Great for employees or frequent visitors
Cons:
Only works if visitor has your app or device
Can drain phone battery if not optimised
Instead of entering an OTP, systems can auto-read incoming messages or use missed calls to verify numbers instantly.
Pros:
Faster than traditional OTP
Better user experience
Cons:
Still depends on network
Limited scope for first-time visitors
Visitors receive a digital entry pass with a pre-verified link or QR, valid only for a specific time and purpose.
Pros:
Reduces walk-in traffic confusion
Works well for appointment-based entries
Cons:
Requires pre-planning
Not suitable for public spaces or general entries
Already being used at airports and some secure facilities, biometric ID methods offer high accuracy and no need for phones or internet.
Pros:
Extremely secure
No dependency on devices or OTPs
Cons:
High cost
Not ideal for small businesses
Don’t rush to remove QR or OTP systems just yet. But yes, it’s a smart idea to start upgrading your system based on the kind of visitors you get and the type of experience you want to offer.For clinics, salons, and coaching centres:
Stick to QR/OTP but add silent OTP or WhatsApp-based options for smoother flow.
Look into face ID or app-based auto entry for regular visitors.
Use pre-visit digital passes, facial recognition booths, and fast check-in counters.
Try Bluetooth or beacon-based auto detection, especially for members or teams.
Change is good, but only if it's easy. Here's how to improve your system without frustrating guests:
Give options – Let visitors choose between QR, app, or facial recognition.
Keep signage clear – Use easy instructions with visuals at entry points.
Train your staff – Receptionists should be able to guide visitors for each method.
Do a soft rollout – Test new systems with a small group first.
QR codes and OTPs were once futuristic. Today, they’re just the baseline. In 2025, businesses that want to feel premium, efficient, and tech-friendly need to look beyond just “scan-and-enter.”
The future is all about making check-ins smarter, faster, and invisible.
Whether it’s face detection, silent OTPs, or Bluetooth auto entry, it’s not just about checking people in anymore. It’s about making them feel welcome, remembered, and respected.
And that’s the real goal of a great visitor experience.
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