Trends in access control for 2026: innovation, security and efficiency

The access control is no longer just a matter of physical security. By 2026, it will be a central tool in building management, digital identity, and corporate operations. Digitalization, integration with IoT, and the adoption of smart solutions are transforming how companies and property owners manage access in a secure and efficient manner.

In this article we analyze the key trends in access control, supported by statistics and practical examples, that will mark the future of the sector.

1. Growth of the global access control market

The access control market continues to grow at an accelerated pace:

• It is expected to reach $13,760 million in 2026.
• Between 2026 and 2035, the global market could exceed $26,000 million, with a CAGR greater than 8% per year.
• The hardware (cards, readers, physical devices) represents about 56% of the market, while software and services grow steadily.

The adoption of modern systems not only protects, but also adds operational and analytical value to companies and smart buildings.

2. Mobile credentials and digital identity

Mobile credentials and digital identities are revolutionizing access:

• 39% of organizations are already actively using mobile identities.
• 80% of companies plan to implement mobile credentials in the coming years.
• These solutions enable remote access management and multi-factor authentication, replacing physical keys and cards.

Practical example: an employee accesses the building via their smartphone, and the system adjusts their permissions according to their schedule and location.

3. Access Control as a Service (ACaaS)

The Access Control as a Service (ACaaS) model is gaining strength:

• It allows for remote management, automatic updates, and reduced operating costs.
• ACaaS is projected to grow from $1.34 billion in 2024 to $3.06 billion in 2029 (CAGR ~18%).
• Hybrid implementations combine local and cloud control, ideal for regulated sectors.

With ACaaS, companies manage access from anywhere, with greater security and scalability.

4. Artificial intelligence and predictive analysis

AI transforms access control into an intelligent and predictive system:

• Analyzes behavior patterns and detects anomalies in real-time.
• Allows automating responses to security events.
• The behavioral AI optimizes flows and anticipates risks, improving efficiency and protection.

Example: the system automatically alerts if someone tries to access outside their usual schedule.

5. Advanced biometrics and contactless solutions

Biometrics continues to be a trend:

• The biometric authentication market will reach $8.8 billion by 2026, growing ~16% annually.
• Technologies such as facial recognition, iris, and fingerprints are combined with other authentication factors.
• Contactless authentication improves user hygiene and experience, key in corporate and healthcare environments.

6. Integration with smart buildings

Access control is increasingly integrated with IoT and smart building systems:

• 48% of organizations monitor occupancy and people flow with access data.
• 43% consider integration with smart buildings a priority.

Integrating access control with lighting, HVAC, and video surveillance optimizes resources and increases security.

7. Sustainability and efficiency

Sustainability influences decisions on system updates:

• 63% of sustainability leaders have a say in access control choices.
• Energy-efficient solutions and low-environmental-impact hardware are prioritized.

Benefit: Reduce consumption and environmental footprint without compromising security or efficiency.

8. Hybrid solutions: cloud and on-premise

Although the cloud dominates, hybrid systems remain popular:

• They allow local control in critical cases and cloud backup for scalability and operational continuity.
• Ideal for sensitive sectors such as government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure.

9. Cybersecurity and data protection

Digital security becomes as important as physical security:

• 37% of companies report attempts at digital breaches in their access control systems.
• The integration of Zero-Trust and multi-factor authentication will be key in 2026.

Modern systems protect not only physical doors and entrances but also data and users.

Conclusion

By 2026, access control will be:

- Central to smart buildings and corporate operations
- Driven by mobile credentials and advanced biometrics
- Offered as a service (ACaaS) with scalability and flexibility
- Integrated with AI for predictive security and data analysis
- Part of sustainability and efficiency strategies

Organizations that adopt these trends will be able to reduce risks, optimize operations, and improve the experience of users and employees, ensuring a safer and more efficient future.

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