Context
Bluetooth lets the ButterflyMX mobile app connect directly to nearby access points. It powers a backup connection that keeps unlocking working when an access point loses its internet connection.
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.
- You must be within approximately 10 feet of the access point.
- The access point must support Bluetooth.
Grant ButterflyMX app permissions
When Bluetooth becomes available at your property, the ButterflyMX mobile app will prompt you to grant permissions.
Select Allow when prompted. (image below is for iOS). The ButterflyMX app must have permission to use Bluetooth (iOS); on Android, it must have permissions for Nearby Devices and Location.
- Once permissions are granted, ButterflyMX can connect directly to compatible access points when needed.
- If you choose Not now or deny permissions, you will need to enable it later in your phone’s settings before Bluetooth features can work.
Turn on permissions after declining
If you selected Not now or Don't Allow, Nearby and Fallback can't operate until you turn the permissionsin 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.
- Repeat for Location.
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.
- This icon will appear even if you have not granted permissions on your device.
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 (iOS); on Android, it must have permissions for Nearby Devices and Location.
- 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