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Frustration with exclusive app-based access systems

Severity: SevereOpportunity: 4/5AutomationGeneral

The Problem

Users are experiencing significant frustration with systems that require exclusive reliance on mobile apps for access, whether it's for design tools like Figma or for apartment entry via landlord-installed systems. These solutions often fail due to bugs or lack of offline access, leading to situations where users are locked out or unable to utilize essential features. Current solutions do not adequately address the need for reliable, alternative access methods, leaving users feeling trapped and frustrated.

Market Context

This pain point aligns with the growing trend of digital access management, where physical and digital spaces increasingly rely on app-based solutions. As more services transition to app-only access, the frustrations with reliability and user experience are becoming more pronounced, making this a timely issue for many users.

Related Products

Sources (2)

Reddit / r/montrealhousing706 points
Can my landlord require I use a phone app as my only means of entering my apartment?

Figma, in the future can you please cut this shit out? thanks!

by Sea-Hat-4925

Reddit / r/FigmaDesign27 points
How to get slots now

Since then, I have been locked out because my phone died more than once.

by Legato895

Keywords

app accessuser frustrationreliability issuesdigital access

Similar Pain Points

Market Opportunity

Estimated SAM

$240M-$3.7B/yr

Growing
SegmentUsers$/moAnnual
Apartment renters using smart access systems500K-2M$10-$30$60M-$720M
Design tool users reliant on app features1M-5M$15-$50$180M-$3B

Based on the estimated number of apartment renters and design tool users, applying a conservative penetration rate of 5-10% for those experiencing access issues.

Comparable Products

AkuvoxFigma($200M+)Nest($100M+)

What You Could Build

Access Backup

Side Project

A backup access solution for app-dependent systems.

Why Now

As reliance on app-based access grows, users need a fail-safe to avoid lockouts.

How It's Different

Unlike existing solutions that solely depend on app access, this would provide alternative methods like QR codes or physical keys.

React NativeFirebaseNode.js

Access Control Hub

Full-Time Build

A centralized platform for managing access across apps and devices.

Why Now

With the rise of app-based access systems, users need a unified way to manage their access points.

How It's Different

Current products focus on individual systems; this would integrate multiple access methods into one platform.

Next.jsSupabaseStripe

Fallback Key

Weekend Build

A simple device that provides backup access to app-controlled entries.

Why Now

As users face more app-based access issues, a physical backup solution can prevent lockouts.

How It's Different

Existing solutions often lack physical alternatives; this would ensure users always have a way in, regardless of app issues.

ArduinoBluetoothReact