Abstract: In one embodiment, a retail security system is disclosed. The system includes a locking system having a plurality of locking assemblies, each configured to restrict full access to a respective article and selectively alterable between locked and unlocked states. The locking system further includes a wireless communication module. When wireless communication is established between a general-use portable electronic device and the locking system or a server, and a user of the portable electronic device is authenticated, the locking system is configured to receive instructions from the portable electronic device or the server. In response to the instructions, the locking system alters at least one of the locking assemblies from the locked state to the unlocked state, thereby permitting the authenticated user to access the article while maintaining security for other articles associated with the locking system.

Abstract: Systems and methods control access across access systems. A reader receives a token from a user authenticator, and permission is determined by validating the token. When permitted, a digital key bound to a target resource is generated. A receiver of an access system obtains and verifies the digital key—optionally offline—and actuates the access system to perform an authorized operation. The token may include a first identifier portion usable by a first access system and an appended extension portion encoding data usable by one or more additional access systems. Extensions may be written or removed via a server-supplied amendment package or a locally unlocked package on a device or a first or third-party application, thereby augmenting or revoking privileges while preserving usability of the token by the first access system. The approach applies to locks, enclosures, compartments, devices, vehicles, and other access-controlled resources.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for digitally providing access to one or more articles is disclosed. The system includes one or more locking units. A server generates or stores a digital key associated with a locking unit or corresponding article. Upon a first event, the digital key is provided to the portable electronic device of the user. The first event comprises the user initiating a request for access to the articles, the locking unit, or the digital key, and verification that the user satisfies a predetermined condition. The first event does not comprise a payment for, or an authorization of payment for, purchase or rental of the one or more articles. For each locking unit, the memory receives data related to the article or the user corresponding to a time when the locking unit is altered between the locked state and the unlocked state.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for digitally providing access to one or more articles is disclosed. The system includes one or more locking units to secure the articles in a locked state. A server generates or stores a digital key associated with the article or the locking unit. When the digital key is provided to a portable electronic device of a user, the digital key enables the portable electronic device to alter the locking unit between the locked state and the unlocked state without the user paying for the article or authorizing payment for the article. Upon a first event, the digital key is assigned to the user and provided to the portable electronic device of the user. The first event includes the user initiating a request for access to the article or the digital key, and verification that the user satisfies a predetermined condition.