Context
Bluetooth lets the ButterflyMX mobile app connect directly to nearby access points. It powers two things: a nearby access point button that unlocks the entrance closest to you, and a backup connection that keeps unlocking working when an access point loses its internet connection.
Nearby Access Point Button
When you are near a compatible ButterflyMX intercom or reader, a nearby access point button may appear at the bottom of the mobile app. The button displays the name of the detected access point and lets you tap to unlock it.
The button appears whether or not the access point is online. It is there to save you from finding the right entrance in your list of access points.
The button appears within Bluetooth range, generally 10 feet or less, and disappears when you move away or the app can no longer detect the access point.
Why does the nearby access points button appear and disappear?
The button appears when the app detects a compatible access point within Bluetooth range—generally 10 feet or less. It disappears automatically when you move out of range or the app can no longer detect that access point.
If you expect to see the button but do not, move closer to the entrance and confirm that Bluetooth is turned on and that ButterflyMX has permission to use it.
Why does the button show only one door?
The app displays one nearby access point at a time. If more than one compatible entrance is within range, ButterflyMX uses Bluetooth signal strength to identify and display the nearest one.
Move closer to the entrance you want to use, then confirm that the door name shown on the button is correct before tapping it.
Why doesn't the button appear for a smart lock door?
Nearby access points is available for compatible ButterflyMX intercoms and readers. Smart lock doors do not display the nearby access points button. Continue using the existing smart lock unlock option shown in the ButterflyMX mobile app.
Bluetooth Fallback
Normally, ButterflyMX uses an internet connection to send an unlock request from your phone to the access point. If a compatible access point is offline, Bluetooth fallback creates a direct connection between your phone and the access point instead.
You can continue using Swipe to open in the ButterflyMX mobile app. If an internet connection is unavailable, the app will use Bluetooth to communicate with the access point.
Note: Bluetooth fallback only works when you are physically near the access point. You cannot use Bluetooth fallback to unlock an offline access point remotely.
Before you begin
To use Bluetooth:
- Bluetooth must be enabled for your property and access point.
- You must have access to the door in the ButterflyMX mobile app.
- Bluetooth must be turned on for your phone.
- The ButterflyMX app must have permission to use Bluetooth.
- You must be within approximately 10 feet of the access point.
- The access point must support Bluetooth.
Allow ButterflyMX to use Bluetooth
When Bluetooth becomes available at your property, the ButterflyMX mobile app will prompt you to allow Bluetooth access.
Select Allow when prompted.
- Once permission is granted, ButterflyMX can connect directly to compatible access points when needed.
- If you choose Not now or deny Bluetooth permission, you will need to enable it later in your phone’s settings before Bluetooth can work.
Turn on Bluetooth permission after declining
If you selected Not now or Don't Allow, ButterflyMX can't use Bluetooth until you turn the permission on in your phone's settings. The app won't ask you again.
On iPhone
- Open Settings.
- Tap Privacy & Security.
- Tap Bluetooth.
- Turn on ButterflyMX.
Note: You can also go to Settings, scroll to ButterflyMX, and turn on Bluetooth there.
On Android
- Open Settings.
- Tap Apps, then tap ButterflyMX.
- Tap Permissions.
- Tap Nearby devices, then select Allow.
Note: Android lists this permission as Nearby devices rather than Bluetooth. It covers Bluetooth access for the app.
Steps can vary slightly by phone manufacturer. If you don't see Apps, look for App info or Manage apps.
Unlock an offline access point
- Approach the access point you want to unlock.
- Confirm that Bluetooth is turned on for your phone.
- Open the ButterflyMX mobile app.
- Locate the access point.
- Use Swipe to open as usual.
If the access point is offline and you are within Bluetooth range, the app will attempt to connect directly to the access point and unlock it.
Understanding the Bluetooth icon
A Bluetooth icon will appear next to an access point in the ButterflyMX mobile app.
- An active (blue) Bluetooth icon indicates that your phone has detected a nearby Bluetooth-enabled access point.
- An inactive (greyed-out) Bluetooth icon indicates that the access point supports Bluetooth but is not currently within range.
The icon does not need to be active when the access point is online. Bluetooth is used as a fallback when the access point cannot receive an unlock request through its normal internet connection.
Troubleshooting Bluetooth fallback
If you cannot unlock an offline access point, try the following:
- Move closer to the access point. Bluetooth fallback generally requires you to be within approximately 10 feet.
- Confirm that Bluetooth is turned on for your phone.
- Confirm that the ButterflyMX app has permission to use Bluetooth.
- Make sure you are signed in to the correct ButterflyMX account.
- Verify that the access point appears in your app and that you have permission to unlock it.
- Close and reopen the ButterflyMX app, then try Swipe to open again.
If the issue continues, contact your property management team or ButterflyMX Support.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Bluetooth fallback to open a door remotely?
No. Your phone must be near the access point to establish a direct Bluetooth connection. If you are outside Bluetooth range and the access point is offline, the app cannot unlock it remotely.
Do I need to use a different unlock action?
No. Continue using Swipe to open in the ButterflyMX mobile app. Bluetooth serves as a fallback when the access point is offline.
Does Bluetooth replace the access point’s internet connection?
No. Bluetooth is a backup method for unlocking compatible access points during an internet interruption. When the access point is online, ButterflyMX continues to use its normal connection.
Why am I being asked to allow Bluetooth access?
Bluetooth permission allows the ButterflyMX app to connect directly to compatible access points during an internet interruption. If permission is not granted, Bluetooth fallback will not be available.
Does Bluetooth fallback work from anywhere in the building?
No. You must be physically near the access point—generally within approximately 10 feet—for your phone to establish a Bluetooth connection.
Why is Bluetooth working for the intercom(s) but not the reader(s) at my property?
If Bluetooth is turned on and your property also has wallet passes, Bluetooth will not be available to use for the readers, but it will be available for the intercoms