Green security

IDS Imaging Development Systems will showcase new camera platforms, technologies and innovation projects for industrial image processing at VISION 2026 (Messe Stuttgart, 6–8 October) at booth 8C60. Under the theme “Trends. Innovations. Future.”, IDS will showcase uEye camera platforms, event-based imaging, 3D vision systems, and AI and embedded vision technologies. “Computer vision must do more today than just reliably capture images. It is crucial how quickly and easily image processing moves from an idea to a concrete application – and how well cameras, software and AI functions can be integrated into existing systems. This is precisely what we align our product strategy with: IDS offers industrial cameras and computer vision components that users can flexibly combine into their own solutions. Instead of turnkey systems, we focus on modular hardware and software with high quality, long term availability, technological standards and comprehensive support – right up to customer-specific customisations. Being close to customers and partners is essential: Requirements from specific applications feed directly into our development, improving existing products, expanding our portfolio and helping to bring innovations into industrial practice more quickly. At VISION, we are showing how IDS consistently rethinks image processing, from classic industrial cameras to computer vision components with integrated AI,” explains Jan Hartmann, Managing Partner at IDS. Computer vision components New products and technologies for VISION 2026 IDS Imaging Development Systems has been developing industrial cameras and computer vision components for industrial and non-industrial applications for almost 30 years. The focus of this year's trade fair presence is on new uEye vision camera platforms, which serve as the technological basis for upcoming 2D industrial camera series. They are designed for higher performance, simple integration and long-term availability. In collaboration with Prophesee, IDS is presenting further developments in event-based camera technology for highly dynamic applications such as drones and autonomous systems. A key focus is also event-based image processing. Together with Prophesee, IDS provides an insight into further developments in the field of event-based cameras. The technology is particularly suited to highly dynamic applications such as drones, AGVs and autonomous systems, including object detection, tracking and safe navigation. Embedded vision systems In the field of 3D vision, the company is presenting news regarding the 3D ToF camera Nion, including a new RGB set for synchronized image acquisition that merges color and depth data. In addition, IDS is showing a new version of the active stereo vision Ensenso N series for precise and robust 3D data acquisition in robotics, bin picking and measurement technology. The technology roadmap also includes AI cameras and embedded vision systems. IDS is extending its uEye Live series of monitoring cameras with streaming and recording functionality by adding AI-enabled models, paving the way for AI-powered image processing on-the-edge. High-performance neural networks from our partner DENKweit perform tasks such as fast object and position detection, precise parcel handling and efficient code reading. New AI-capable uEye Live cameras recognize objects and their position using neural networks from DENKweit. Insight into innovation projects Embedded vision processes As a key innovation project, IDS is presenting the “GMSL Multi-Camera Vision System”. It demonstrates how intelligent embedded vision processes and combines images from multiple cameras with integrated ISPs and SoCs directly within the system, before transmitting the resulting data via a single GMSL cable. This reduces latency and data load in favour of a reliable basis for their own projects with distributed GMSL cameras, particularly in mobile applications. Another project demonstrates active focus control fully integrated into the camera, where control and feedback are provided directly via the software. The robust hardware is suitable for demanding applications in logistics, autonomous systems and retail. For vegetation analysis, IDS is showing an NDVI camera that combines multispectral imaging with high resolution color imaging. It makes the health status of plants visible and provides reliable NDVI (Normalised Difference Vegetation Index) values, with which planning and resource allocation in agriculture can be specifically improved. Developing practical solutions VISION Makeathon 2026 At the VISION Makeathon 2026, tangible prototypes are created from ideas: Interdisciplinary teams develop practical solutions for current image processing challenges within one day. IDS is participating as a project company with its own challenge, technology and expert know-how. This year at VISION, IDS is once again showcasing trends, innovations, an future topics in industrial image processing. VISION, the world's pioneer trade fair for machine vision, will take place from 6 - 8 October at Messe Stuttgart

Commvault, a pioneer in unified resilience at enterprise scale, announced a new integration with CrowdStrike that makes Commvault cyber recovery actions available as native steps within Charlotte Agentic SOAR workflows. The integration enables joint customers to automate Commvault recovery actions as part of security workflows, helping accelerate response and forensic investigations while reducing manual coordination between security and recovery teams. AI-driven automation is helping organizations detect, investigate, and respond to threats at machine speed, yet fragmented tools and workflows can slow security teams at critical moments. The new purpose-built connector enables security teams to incorporate Commvault cyber recovery actions directly into workflows orchestrated by Charlotte Agentic SOAR and rapidly accelerate investigation, response, and recovery. Without disrupting production systems Key capabilities include: Restrict access in Commvault to help prevent unauthorized changes during an active incident. Preserve clean recovery options by automatically suspending Commvault backup data ageing policies to retain viable recovery points during active incidents. Accelerate forensic investigations by restoring potentially compromised assets into Commvault Cleanroom, enabling investigators to begin analysis without disrupting production systems. Automated security workflows “Security and recovery teams need to move quickly and in coordination during an incident,” said Vidya Shankaran, Field CTO, Commvault. “Our integration with CrowdStrike Charlotte Agentic SOAR makes Commvault cyber recovery actions available directly within security workflows, helping joint customers reduce manual handoffs and accelerate investigation and response. This strengthens cyber resilience and simplifies how security and recovery teams work together seamlessly.” Today’s news is the latest in a series of integrations with CrowdStrike: Falcon Insight XDR brought CrowdStrike threat intelligence into Commvault Cloud; Falcon Next-Gen SIEM extended visibility; and the new Charlotte Agentic SOAR integration enables Commvault cyber recovery actions to be incorporated directly into automated security workflows. The integration between Commvault and Charlotte Agentic SOAR is generally available for joint Commvault and CrowdStrike customers. The integration is also available through the CrowdStrike Marketplace.

Prometheus Security Group Global (PSG), the FED-GOV Nuclear Security Platform and a pioneer in Zero Trust physical security and operational technology (OT) solutions, announces a technology partnership with Mercury Security, a pioneer in open-architecture access control hardware, to extend Zero Trust principles deeper into physical security environments — all the way to the far edge. The partnership combines Mercury’s industry-pioneer access control platform with PSG’s patented technology for embedding Zero Trust directly at the far-edge device — including sensors, door hardware, readers, cameras, and other field devices. By establishing trusted device identity and cryptographically authenticating and verifying field signals, PSG enables physical security systems to move beyond assumed inputs to authenticated, verified data at its source — before that data ever enters the network. Verifying field signals Through its partnership organizations work to reduce cyber risk across operational and physical security environments, confidence in the integrity of field-device data is increasingly critical. Most physical security systems inherently trust their field inputs and continue to rely on decades-old end-of-line resistor (EOL) technology, which was designed to detect circuit faults but provides no device identity, authentication, or signal verification. “Zero Trust begins with knowing that the data entering a system is both authenticated and verified. Mercury’s leadership in access control, combined with PSG’s embedded identity and signal verification at Layers 0 and 1, gives customers a powerful way to strengthen security at the far edge — across both analog and digital environments — without requiring wholesale replacement of existing infrastructure,” said Rick Gross, CEO, Prometheus Security Group Global. Physical security decisions “Mercury has built its reputation on delivering open, flexible, and highly reliable access control solutions. By collaborating with PSG, we are strengthening the integrity of physical security data and supporting the evolving cybersecurity requirements of our customers,” said Damon Dageenakis, Senior Director of Product Management, Mercury Security. Under the partnership, PSG and Mercury will collaborate on technology initiatives, market education, and customer engagement designed to help security leaders apply Zero Trust principles throughout physical security systems — strengthening security at the far edge while preserving investments in existing physical security infrastructure. For PSG, the partnership represents an important step in advancing a broader Zero Trust architecture for physical security: establishing trust not only in users and networks, but also in the devices, communications, events, and data that drive physical security decisions. As AI and advanced analytics increasingly influence those decisions, the ability to authenticate and verify data at its source becomes even more critical — AI can only be as trusted as the data it receives.

IDS Imaging Development Systems will showcase new camera platforms, technologies, and innovation projects for industrial image processing at VISION 2026 (Messe Stuttgart, October 6 to 8) at booth 8C60. Under the theme “Trends. Innovations. Future,” the trade fair appearance includes uEye camera platforms, event-based image processing, 3D vision systems, as well as AI and embedded vision technologies. “Computer vision must do more today than just reliably capture images. What is crucial is how quickly and easily image processing moves from an idea to a concrete application – and how well cameras, software, and AI functions can be integrated into existing systems. This is exactly what we align our product strategy with: IDS offers industrial cameras and computer vision components that users can flexibly combine into their own solutions. Instead of turnkey systems, we focus on modular hardware and software with high quality, long-term availability, technological standards, and comprehensive support – right up to customer-specific customisations. Being close to customers and partners is essential: Requirements from real-world applications feed directly into our development process, helping to improve existing products, expand our portfolio, and bring innovations to industrial applications more quickly. At VISION 2026, we will demonstrate how IDS continues to advance machine vision, from traditional industrial cameras to computer vision components with integrated AI,” explains Jan Hartmann, Managing Partner at IDS. Event-based imaging IDS Imaging Development Systems has been developing industrial cameras and computer vision components for industrial and non-industrial applications for almost 30 years. The focus of this year's trade fair presence is on new uEye vision camera platforms, which serve as the technological basis for upcoming 2D industrial camera series. They are designed for higher performance, simple integration, and long-term availability. Another focus area is event-based imaging. Together with Prophesee, IDS provides insight into further developments in the field of event-based cameras. The technology is particularly suitable for highly dynamic applications such as drones, AGVs, and autonomous systems, for example for object recognition, tracking, or safe navigation. Synchronized image acquisition In the field of 3D vision, the company is presenting news regarding the 3D ToF camera Nion, including a new RGB set for synchronized image acquisition that merges color and depth data. In addition, IDS will showcase a new version of the Ensenso N Series active stereo vision system for precise and robust 3D data acquisition in robotics, bin picking, and metrology. AI cameras and embedded vision systems are also part of the technology roadmap. IDS is expanding the uEye Live series of monitoring cameras with streaming and recording capabilities to include AI-enabled models, enabling AI-powered image processing on-the-edge. High-performance neural networks from our partner DENKweit perform tasks such as fast object and position detection, precise parcel handling and efficient code reading. Intelligent embedded vision processes As a key innovation project, IDS is presenting the “GMSL Multi-Camera Vision System.” It demonstrates how intelligent embedded vision processes and combines images from multiple cameras with integrated ISPs and SoCs directly within the system, before transmitting the resulting data via a single GMSL cable. This reduces latency and data load in favour of a reliable basis for their own projects with distributed GMSL cameras, especially in mobile applications. Another project demonstrates active focus control fully integrated into the camera, where control and feedback occur directly via the software. The robust hardware is suitable for demanding applications in logistics, autonomous systems, and retail. Image processing challenges For vegetation analysis, IDS is showing an NDVI camera that combines multispectral imaging with high-resolution color imaging. It makes the health status of plants visible and provides reliable NDVI (Normalised Difference Vegetation Index) values, with which planning and resource allocation in agriculture can be specifically improved. At the VISION Makeathon 2026, tangible prototypes are created from ideas: Interdisciplinary teams develop practical solutions for current image processing challenges within one day. IDS contributes as a project company with its own challenge, technology, and expert know-how. VISION, the trade fair for image processing, will take place October 6–8 at Messe Stuttgart.

With the new Privacy Mode, Dallmeier is expanding its video solution with a powerful data protection feature: Operators can centrally and temporarily disable image capture, recording, and image output – system-wide or in defined sub-areas. At the same time, the activated Privacy Mode is clearly indicated directly on the cameras. With the new Privacy Mode, Dallmeier is focusing above all on ease of use: The feature allows operators to temporarily disable image capture and recording for the entire system or individual cameras – quickly, in a controlled manner, and without having to switch off individual components separately. Until now, completely interrupting video surveillance often required various system components to be specifically disabled. In the future, a single command will be sufficient: Authorized users can activate Privacy Mode directly via the SeMSy® Compact client software. Interrupting video surveillance As soon as Privacy Mode is activated, the affected cameras immediately stop capturing images. At the same time, recording is stopped and the video output is replaced by a static Privacy Mode image. This means that no personal image data is captured or recorded while Privacy Mode is active, eliminating unnecessary use of recording capacity. For operators, this makes it significantly easier to implement internal data privacy policies and comply with legal requirements. Data privacy policies While Privacy Mode is active, the system components remain active and fully operational, eliminating the need to shut down and subsequently restart the system. Once Privacy Mode is deactivated, video surveillance becomes available again within a very short time and can return to regular operation with virtually no delay. This offers significant advantages particularly for critical infrastructure, airports, stadiums, and public facilities. Operators can respond flexibly to different situations without compromising the rapid availability of their security system. Building additional trust A special feature of Privacy Mode, which is also protected by a utility model, is the externally visible indication of its status directly on the cameras. Depending on the model, this can be achieved, for example, by lowering the Privacy Shield of a Panomera® camera, flashing a privacy indicator, or moving Domera® cameras to a defined privacy position. This allows employees, visitors, or event attendees to immediately see that no images are currently being captured. It enhances transparency for affected individuals and helps build additional trust. Practical and convenient solution Privacy Mode can only be activated by authorized users. In addition, the feature can be protected by appropriate authorization concepts and security mechanisms, such as a dual-login procedure. This ensures that operators retain full control over the use of the data privacy feature at all times. Privacy Mode helps operators more easily meet the requirements of the GDPR as well as principles defined by data protection authorities, such as data minimisation, recording limitation, and transparency. Requirements for privacy-compliant video surveillance continue to increase. The new Privacy Mode provides operators with a practical and convenient solution for meeting these requirements. Video information technology In 1984, Dieter Dallmeier founded what is now Dallmeier electronic – not in the proverbial garage, but in a garden shed in Regensburg, Germany. Today, the company, which can justifiably call itself a hidden champion for video information technology "Made in Germany", has several hundred employees worldwide, more than 250 of them at the company headquarters in the center of Regensburg alone. Dallmeier's camera, recording, software, and analysis solutions optimize security and processes for B2B end customers in a wide range of industries in over 60 countries. The focus is on users from the casino, smart city, airports, logistics, stadiums, and industrial sectors. But also, banks, critical infrastructure facilities as well as medium-sized companies from all sectors. Tangible customer benefits With pioneering innovations, Dallmeier has succeeded time and again in placing itself at the forefront of technology: From the world's first digital image storage system with motion analysis in 1992, the patented "multifocal sensor technology" Panomera® with its "Mountera®" mounting system, to the latest Domera® camera family, which allows up to 300 camera variants with only 18 components. These and many other innovations provide real, tangible customer benefits. And with a low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and a high Return on Investment (ROI) they can easily compete with systems produced and supplied from low-wage countries. With "Made in Germany", they also guarantee the customers the highest standards in data protection, cybersecurity, and ethical responsibility. With high quality and short supply chains, they also ensure – almost incidentally – sustainability and environmental protection. From their prestigious headquarters in the center of Regensburg, Dallmeier not only carries out its own research and development but also the complete manufacturing process – from component to product to solution.

HID, a pioneer in trusted identity solutions, announces new enhancements that help organizations fast-track their mobile access adoption as part of their broader digital transformation. Introduced ahead of GSX 2026, the updates enable users to build on existing infrastructure, reduce onsite work and streamline deployment by eliminating the need to replace readers or issue new mobile keys. One of the biggest obstacles for mobile projects is the need to update readers already installed throughout a facility. The HID Mobile Access App now includes new functionality that enables HID mobile-ready readers, including HID Signo™ and iCLASS® SE™, to use existing Seos® keys without needing to replace or reconfigure readers, perform firmware updates or require truck rolls. The result is a faster, lower-cost path to mobile while maintaining HID's trusted security. Large-scale implementations "Organizations have recognized the value of mobile access for years, but large-scale implementations have often required significant time, resources and coordination," said Nick Stoner, Vice President, PACS NAM Channel Sales, HID. "These new capabilities make mobile deployments more practical by allowing customers to use the infrastructure they already have and giving integration partners a more efficient way to deliver projects." For HID Advantage Partner Program (APP) partners participating in HID’s Trade-Up program in North America, HID is also introducing QuickStart to Mobile, a service that enables HID to onboard end users on behalf of integration partners. Instead of spending time enrolling users, partners can focus on project delivery as customers begin issuing mobile credentials sooner, simplifying both deployment planning and user rollout. Digital wallet options Additional updates that support the transition to mobile include: Expanded digital wallet support: HID is adding support for Samsung Wallet, expanding digital wallet options in global markets. By supporting wallets people already use, organizations can accelerate mobile adoption, making access more convenient. Simplified reader management: HID Linq™ Mobile enables administrators to configure, update and prepare compatible readers directly from a mobile device. Firmware updates, reader configuration and mobile enablement can all be completed in the field using Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) and NFC, reducing the onsite work required to prepare readers for mobile credentials. Investments in HID technology Rather than requiring organizations to choose between maintaining existing infrastructure and adopting mobile credentials, HID's latest enhancements provide a practical digital transformation path that supports both. Customers can scale mobile access strategically, building on existing investments while supporting current operational priorities and future growth. Together, these enhancements demonstrate HID’s customer-focused approach and its continued commitment to helping customers derive greater value from their investments in HID technology. HID will showcase these capabilities during GSX 2026 at booth #1323. To learn more, visit the team at the show or reach out to the HID Account Manager.

Europe has set an ambitious goal. With the European Green Deal, leaders aim to make the continent climate neutral by 2050. Ireland is following this lead, promising to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 51% before 2030. And solar energy is a key part of this plan. If you drive through rural Ireland today, you can see the changes happening. Solar farms now cover former grazing land and open fields. They work quietly and efficiently, providing clean electricity to homes, hospitals, schools, and businesses. Most of the time, these sites are empty. There are no workers patrolling the area and no lights in office windows at night. Clean energy supply That stillness, however, hides a growing risk. Each solar site holds millions of euros worth of equipment. Every megawatt of solar power relies on a complex network of copper cables, solar panels, inverters, and electrical systems. These parts are valuable, especially when copper prices are high. For thieves looking for quick profit, an unmanned solar farm can seem like an easy target. Just one act of trespassing or vandalism can lead to stolen wiring, damaged panels, and production shutdowns that last days or even weeks. Repairs are expensive, but the bigger problem is the impact on clean energy supply and trust in the infrastructure supporting Europe’s low-carbon future. Standard video cameras A report from PV Magazine says police in the United Kingdom have seen a sharp rise in solar-related crimes That stillness hides a growing risk. Each solar site holds millions of euros worth of equipment. A report from PV Magazine says police in the United Kingdom have seen a sharp rise in solar-related crimes, with cases increasing by 93% between 2021 and 2022. This trend is familiar: when commodity prices go up, rural energy sites attract more attention from criminals. While a passerby might see only glass and steel, others see scrap metal and resale value. For a long time, many of these sites and businesses did not prioritise security. They put up fences, used standard video cameras, and hired guards. These steps provided some reassurance, but often only responded after damage had already happened. Traditional cameras record events but rarely stop them. Guards cannot monitor every part of a large site, especially when solar farms cover hundreds of acres. Traditional security methods As renewable infrastructure expands, traditional security methods are no longer enough. The industry needs to change its approach. As Europe builds more renewable energy projects, security should become a main part of planning. Developers now consider not just energy output, but also how resilient a site will be. Communities want the infrastructure supporting their climate goals to run smoothly, and investors want to know that sites and assets are safe. New technology is now helping protect remote energy sites. One method uses video analytics along with live operators who watch camera feeds from remote centers. Instead of waiting for alarms to go off after a breach, these systems can spot unusual activity as it happens. For example, if someone lingers near a fence late at night, the system can send an alert that is different from one triggered by wildlife passing by earlier. Preventing similar problems This approach aims to move security from just recording events to actually stopping them When something suspicious happens, security teams can check the situation and decide if they need to respond. Sometimes, operators send a live audio message to let people know they are being watched. This can stop trespassing or theft because it takes away the feeling of being anonymous. This approach aims to move security from just recording events to actually stopping them. If a situation gets worse, staff can follow set procedures and keep watching until it is over. Afterward, they write incident reports. These records help with reviews, regulatory paperwork, insurance claims, and learning how to prevent similar problems in the future. Large solar projects Ireland already shows how this model works. Several large solar projects across the country now use integrated, remote monitoring from the very start of construction. At one major site, developers installed 170 cameras, investing nearly €1 million in security alone. This amount shows more than just caution. It marks a change in how the industry sees protection. Security is now as important as engineering and grid connection in project planning. Security is now as important as engineering and grid connection in project planning A solar farm that runs smoothly does more than just make electricity. It helps meet climate goals, boosts energy independence, and shows stability. If a site is left unprotected, the impact goes beyond one facility. It affects energy supply and public trust. That is why security should be a basic part of development. Providing reliable power As Ireland grows its solar capacity, it sets an example for the rest of Europe. Clean energy is not just about building infrastructure. It also requires steps to protect what has been built. The new fields of glass and steel are more than just power sources — they are shared commitment to a more sustainable future. Protecting that future requires ongoing effort. Europe is creating its clean energy landscape one panel and one field at a time. By caring for the security of these sites as much as their construction, these quiet areas will keep providing reliable power and support a stronger energy system for years ahead.

Modernizing security infrastructure requires research and planning to build intelligent, connected systems that are secure, scalable and positioned to take the organization into the future. Prioritising needs, total cost of ownership, interoperability, resilience and sustained value will help ensure that a surveillance system upgrade will deliver both protection and measurable operational impact. Before making that investment, however, security leaders must answer a few key questions to manage expectations, gain buy-in, and minimize disruptions or hurdles during the upgrade itself. What are our needs? First and foremost, leadership must define the overall need for a surveillance system. Some organizations use surveillance purely for security and protection. Others will have additional operational requirements or wants, such as streamlining visitor management, providing data to other departments, or automating specific operations. Defining current and potential future applications is an important starting point. First and foremost, leadership must define the overall need for a surveillance system Surveillance systems are more capable than ever of tackling applications beyond security, including safety, business intelligence, and operational efficiency. Therefore, security teams should loop those areas of business that may have a stake in the system into the discussion as early as possible to further determine must-haves and manage expectations. Managing specific access Next, security teams ought to consider lapses in the capabilities of their current system, along with protocols or compliance requirements already in place. Other considerations include determining how many locations and users will access the system (which is especially important if considering business intelligence opportunities), how many cameras and which types are necessary, and whether the organization plans to manage specific access. Unless already specified by their business, security leaders should also weigh the pros and cons of a cloud-based system, on-prem system or hybrid approach — taking into account the rising costs of memory and servers. How can we plan for the future? AI and advanced analytics have rapidly changed the security landscape AI and advanced analytics have rapidly changed the security landscape, enabling businesses to ramp up protection and operational efficiencies with just an upgrade. But, in order to take advantage of many of these intelligent advancements, security leaders have to verify that their surveillance system, and the manufacturing partners they are working with, can handle today’s — and tomorrow’s — technology. An open platform, open standards system gives security teams the flexibility to upgrade, add or integrate other systems or new technology over time as the organization’s needs evolve, technology advances or compliance changes. Open platform systems Flexibility can benefit organizations when it comes to video camera compression. For example, while much of the compression currently is driven by the H.264 codec, the industry is moving toward AV1. Considering cameras that handle multiple types of compression, including H.264, H.265 and AV1, empowers the organization to pivot and adapt without ripping and replacing all devices. Flexibility can benefit organizations when it comes to video camera compression When taking a long-term approach to planning, if a path toward interoperability could potentially help with operations, communication or workflows in the future, security leaders should confirm that a new surveillance system has those capabilities before upgrading. Open platform systems that support ONVIF open standards protocols, for example, allow organizations to create interoperable platforms with other systems across the enterprise, including mass notification, two-way audio, access control and HVAC systems. What infrastructure do we have in place? Understanding system capabilities is imperative to managing expectations and determining the best system for the organization, but it’s crucial for security leaders to look at the existing infrastructure in place, from cabling, network and servers to operations staffing and number of locations — all during the research and planning phase. It’s important to take a current assessment of existing equipment and complete a needs analysis to determine which systems should work together or be integrated with the surveillance system. These findings can change potential capabilities and budgetary requirements. Cutting-edge analytics Another consideration when looking at infrastructure is bandwidth and storage capabilities From a practical standpoint, evaluating the existing network, along with cabling and conduit, is critical to understanding if adding additional systems or devices are physically possible within the current infrastructure. Another consideration when looking at infrastructure is bandwidth and storage capabilities. If bandwidth and storage are pain points or roadblocks for a surveillance system, unless businesses are required to process at the server for compliance reasons, processing analytics at the edge could be more economically feasible. Some cameras come with built-in analytics for a wide range of applications and, with an open platform system, custom, cutting-edge analytics can be loaded directly onto the camera without purchasing additional servers as needs or technologies evolve. How can we manage cybersecurity across device lifecycles? In today’s world, with systems such as surveillance often living on a shared network or network governed by IT, it’s necessary for security teams to understand compliance requirements from a cybersecurity perspective. Researching manufacturing partners and their built-in protections to aid with compliance and tighter cybersecurity is an important consideration before any surveillance system investment. Features such as signed firmware prevent third parties from loading firmware that could contain malware onto a camera or other device on the network. Another feature such as secure boot assures that a device boots up using only software that is trusted by the original equipment manufacturer or OEM. Mitigating larger risks Security teams must also factor in when a manufacturer will stop supporting specific firmware Built-in cybersecurity features, health checks and batch updates are essential for ensuring the physical security technology is not the weak point on the network. Many video management systems can alert staff when a camera is not working or there is a problem with network communication. Cloud-based automated device management can perform health checks, track warranties and streamline updates. Security teams must also factor in when a manufacturer will stop supporting specific firmware and confirm that that timeline matches with the organization’s replacement strategy. Robust lifecycle management will not only address vulnerabilities and mitigate larger risks, but contribute toward a lower cost of ownership as well. Can we quantify our total cost of ownership? Tracking the total cost of ownership (TCO) of the organization's current surveillance system and planned upgrade empowers leadership to compare similar solutions to find the best long-term option, taking into account, purchase price, implementation, training, maintenance and hidden costs. TCO is much more than the cost of the hardware, itself, but the cost of bandwidth, storage, operations staffing, maintenance costs, and even energy consumption of the devices on the network. For example, if an organization has 1,000 cameras across the enterprise, quantifying the energy costs between devices and product offerings can add up to significant differences. New technology capabilities Third-party consultants can help organizations with planning and design Security stakeholders can turn to a number of resources to help them make an informed decision about upgrading their surveillance system, as well as to help ensure their current and future needs will be met. Third-party consultants can help organizations with planning and design. Some manufacturers have customer-facing teams and field sales engineers that can conduct site walks and help security teams understand new technology capabilities, current infrastructure and potential use cases. Researching case studies and custom applications both online and through manufacturers is another avenue that allows security leaders to see how specific technologies can help their organization. By remaining agile and understanding where to start and what possibilities exist before a surveillance system investment, security teams can justify the cost of ownership and future-proof their organization with stronger, more integrated, traceable security that leads to a strong return on investment.

In the ever-evolving struggle between cyber offense and defense, attackers have almost always moved first. In the emerging domain of artificial intelligence, this pattern appears to be repeating itself. Yet, global cybersecurity pioneers appear disconcertingly disengaged. Just over half even agree that AI-driven attacks are set to become dramatically more complex and widespread. Equally concerning is the widespread apathy regarding AI’s role in expanding an already sprawling corporate attack surface. This is no small oversight. A recent global Trend Micro study showed that 73 percent of organizations have already suffered cybersecurity incidents due to unknown or unmanaged assets. In an era where digital blind spots are both common and consequential, hesitation is a risk few can afford. Security has to shift from reactive protection to proactive risk exposure management. The opportunity and the risk of AI Threat actors are now using jailbroken versions of legitimate generative AI tools such as ChatGPT The potential for AI to transform enterprise operations is enormous, but so is the risk. The warnings have been loud and clear. As early as the first quarter of 2024, the UK’s National Cyber Security Center (NCSC) stated that AI would “almost certainly increase the volume and heighten the impact of cyber-attacks over the next two years.” Their prediction is proving accurate. Threat actors are now using jailbroken versions of legitimate generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, freely traded as services on the dark web, as well as malicious models like FraudGPT, built on open-source large language models (LLMs). These tools are no longer just about automating tasks; they are turbocharging the entire attack lifecycle. From more convincing phishing emails and precise target selection, to sophisticated malware creation and lateral movement within breached systems, AI is driving a step-change in threat actor capability. Integrating open-source models However, this is only one side of the coin. The other, often overlooked, is AI’s impact on the corporate attack surface. Even well-meaning employees can unintentionally expand organizational risk. The widespread use of AI-as-a-service tools like ChatGPT introduces significant shadow IT concerns, especially when sensitive business information is input without proper oversight. Data processing and storage practices for many of these services remain opaque, raising additional compliance concerns under regulations like the UK GDPR and the EU’s AI Act. For those organizations that choose to build or customize their own LLMs, the risks multiply. Integrating open-source models may expose businesses to vulnerabilities, misconfigurations and flawed dependencies. Each new tool and environment adds to the complexity of an attack surface already strained by remote work setups, sprawling cloud deployments, IoT ecosystems, and accelerating digital transformation programmes. Managing the expanding risk landscape Many have already shared security incidents where a lack of asset visibility was the root cause Many security pioneers do understand what is at stake. Nine in ten agree that effective attack surface management is tied directly to business risk. They cite a long list of potential consequences, disruptions to operations, reputational damage, declining competitiveness, strained supplier relationships, financial losses and reduced staff productivity. Many have already experienced security incidents where a lack of asset visibility was the root cause. Despite this recognition, however, the response remains largely inadequate. Fewer than half of global organizations use dedicated tools to monitor their attack surface proactively. On average, only a quarter of cybersecurity budgets are allocated to managing cyber risk exposure. Third-party risk management is similarly neglected: fewer than half of firms actively monitor their vendors for vulnerabilities. This inertia creates an obvious contradiction. Security pioneers understand the business implications of unmanaged risk, but they are not equipping themselves with the tools or processes to respond. That needs to change—and fast. How AI can help defenders take the lead There is good news: AI is not only a weapon for cybercriminals. It can also be a powerful ally for defenders, particularly in the field of Cyber Risk Exposure Management (CREM). The best tools in this category use AI to continuously scan an organization’s entire digital footprint. They can automatically detect vulnerabilities, spot misconfigurations, identify rogue or shadow assets, and provide prioritized remediation recommendations. CREM platforms apply contextual filtering to reduce false positives and elevate the most urgent threats Intelligent algorithms can also analyze network behavior to identify anomalies that could signal a breach in progress. Unlike traditional tools, which often drown analysts in noise, CREM platforms apply contextual filtering to reduce false positives and elevate the most urgent threats. For overburdened security teams, this enables a far more focused and effective response. However, the keyword here is “continuous.” The nature of today’s IT environments, especially in the cloud, is dynamic and fast-moving. Assets appear and disappear within minutes. Static, point-in-time assessments are no longer sufficient. Yet more than half of organizations still lack continuous scanning processes. This leaves them exposed to risks that might persist undetected for weeks or months. Overcoming barriers to adoption So what is holding organizations back? In many cases, it’s not the technology itself but the internal politics of investment. Security pioneers interested in CREM tools often prioritize real-time alerting, clear dashboards, and seamless integration with their existing environments. All of this is now achievable. The challenge lies in securing board-level support. Many security teams still work in silos, disconnected from the broader business Boards are often cautious when it comes to cybersecurity investment, particularly when immediate ROI is not clear. To gain their trust, security pioneers must learn to speak the language of business risk, not technical threat. They must frame cyber exposure in terms of reputational impact, regulatory liability, operational continuity, and investor confidence. There is also a cultural component. Many security teams still work in silos, disconnected from the broader business. This limits their influence and makes it harder to embed security as a strategic enabler. In the AI era, this divide must be bridged. Cybersecurity must become a board-level concern, and risk exposure must be treated as a fundamental operational issue. Time to act We are at a critical inflection point. The AI revolution is not on the horizon, it is already here. Threat actors are moving rapidly to exploit it, leveraging tools and techniques that were unthinkable just a few years ago. Meanwhile, organizations remain slow to respond. Too few are investing in the tools, processes, and people needed to manage their risk exposure effectively. AI can be used not only to attack but to defend. CREM tools powered by AI offer a powerful way to regain visibility, restore control, and build lasting resilience. They enable proactive rather than reactive security. And they help organizations align their cybersecurity strategy with their broader business objectives. Security teams have to elevate the conversation. They must advocate not just for new tools, but for a new mindset, one that treats cyber risk as an enterprise risk, and one that prioritizes continuous visibility as a prerequisite for resilience.

The security landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, as evidenced by the innovations showcased at the ISC West Expo 2026. From dismantling of silos between physical and digital security to the ongoing transition to cloud and hybrid platforms, much of the discussion on the show floor was familiar, if somehow more urgent than ever. Clearly the industry is moving toward unified, cloud-native, and highly automated ecosystems. In a series of deep-dive meetings and demonstrations at the recent show, I got a first-hand glimpse of the future of the physical security marketplace. Spoiler alert: The future is now! HID Global: Tearing down the silos HID Global is addressing the long-requested convergence of physical and digital security. Recognizing that the industry has historically operated in silos, HID is now leading with a combined implementation team to leverage the power of both sides. HID is supporting the transition by combining its logical and physical security teams to help end users design secure, end-to-end journeys for their employees. By leveraging its massive existing footprint in physical access, HID is uniquely positioned to help organizations upgrade their cybersecurity posture without a total "rip and replace" of their hardware. HID is seeing a surge in demand for converged credentials that unite building access with digital identity. On the digital front, HID has implemented FIDO (Fast Identity Online) and passkeys to replace traditional passwords with more secure, biometric-backed authentication methods. Acre Security: Bridging the gap to the cloud Acre Security previewed a cloud-native video solution, reinforcing its cloud-first security strategyAcre Security is currently consolidating brands, bringing established names like Feenics and AccessIt under a single corporate umbrella. A primary theme for the company at ISC West is the migration of legacy systems to modern infrastructure. To facilitate the transition, they are launching "The Bridge," a technology designed to help on-premise customers transition to the cloud at a pace that suits their operational needs. The company is also expanding its portfolio into video. Attendees at the show received a preview of a new cloud-native video solution slated for release later this year, signaling Acre’s commitment to a holistic, cloud-first security suite. Acoem: Real-time acoustic threat detection With a 35-year foundation in vibration and acoustics—including military sniper detection—Acoem is providing gunshot detection through edge processing. Unlike systems that rely on the cloud and may suffer from latency, Acoem’s technology processes data at the sensor level for instant alerts. Their sensors are engineered for massive outdoor spaces, covering a 500-foot radius (roughly 11 football fields) and can detect high-powered rifle shots from up to half a mile away. The system provides critical intelligence by distinguishing between muzzle blasts and "mach noise" from bullet travel, delivering an audio file to the end-user that maps the location and direction of the threat. They use AI to filter out environmental false positives, such as skateboards hitting metal rails. Alarm.com: The all-in-one dealer ecosystem Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process Alarm.com is doubling down on "giving tools to dealers to help them be successful," with a focus on unified commercial solutions. A highlight at ISC West is their new fire communicator, which integrates fire monitoring into their single app, completing what they call the "fourth leg of the stool." The product allows fire systems to benefit from the same real-time customer engagement and push notifications that have long been available for intrusion and video. The key products, such as commercial-grade hardware, are now available for immediate purchase. Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process. Their new AI Proposal Builder uses customer meeting notes to automatically generate customized, value-driven sales proposals for dealers. Allegion: A global shift in credentialing Following the acquisition of ELATEC, Allegion is adopting a more global market approach and expanding its OEM business. The company is involved in the development of Aliro, the newly unveiled mobile credentialing standard. Allegion’s strategy is built on versatility: While Aliro serves the burgeoning mobile market, they also offer PKOC for plastic cards, allowing them to provide solutions regardless of the user's preferred credential type. The ELATEC acquisition has effectively filled previous gaps in their use-case portfolio, positioning them as a comprehensive provider for both physical and digital access needs. AtlasIED: Engineering for life safety Transitioning from audio to a fully automated threat detection company, AtlasIED showcased its new IPX line at ISC West. This modular platform uses a single PoE++ port to power various "plug-and-play" modules, allowing for easy system upgrades. Their gun detection technology achieves a 99% confidence rating by "stacking" AI models; it cross-references audio data with infrared signatures to detect muzzle flashes and air quality sensors for particulates. With systems already running in 80% of U.S. international airports, the company maintains 24/7 domestic engineering support to manage these "life-safety adjacent" environments. Axis Communications: Unifying connectivity Axis Communications is advancing network video with 4G/5G surveillance, reducing cabling needs Axis Communications continues to lead in network video, with a new focus on offering surveillance through 4G and 5G networks to eliminate the need for extensive cabling in long-range applications. Axis also introduced several specialized hardware pieces, including the P1486-LE global shutter camera for high-speed traffic monitoring and the Q2802-TE, which integrates thermal and visual monitoring into a single unit.  To assist technicians, they launched a new installer app that uses Bluetooth for easier camera pairing and management directly from a mobile device. Axon: De-escalation through enterprise wearables Focusing on frontline safety, Axon is expanding from law enforcement into the enterprise sector with its retail and healthcare-focused body camera. Weighing only 0.25 lb, these cameras are designed to be less intimidating, using colorful designs and acting as a primary de-escalator for aggressive behavior. A clear front display signals when recording is active, striking a balance between safety and a non-intimidating appearance. These devices feature live-streaming and panic alarms that connect workers to a Global Security Operations Center (GSOC). To ensure the footage is legally viable, Axon maintains a rigorous audit trail that authenticates every action recorded. Genetec: The value of the unified platform Genetec is advocating for unified platforms that reduce the time between incident detection and resolution. They argue that AI is becoming a commodity and that the true value lies in unified platforms that reduce the time from incident to resolution. Their approach emphasises the "outcomes" customers need, such as allowing security teams to coalesce around an investigation quickly. Genetec remains a strong supporter of open systems for enterprise customers, ensuring they have the choice to integrate diverse technologies rather than being locked into a manufacturer’s “walled garden.” This flexibility is critical for high-end security environments that require tailored, responsive systems. Johnson Controls: Large-scale enterprise solutions Johnson Controls has made a significant push into the enterprise video market with C-Cure IQ, a standalone VMS designed for major hubs like airports and large campuses. Through a partnership with Scylla, they have integrated 11 advanced analytics—including facial recognition and weapons detection—directly into their cameras. They also showcased new multi-sensor panoramic cameras capable of "stitching" multiple images into a single 360-degree view. While innovating in video, Johnson Controls also confirmed modern upgrades to their intrusion line, including their legacy DSC Neo line. The new DSC PowerSeries Neo 5, a high-end residential and commercial platform, features an all-new user interface and built-in PowerG+. They have also begun shipping the IQ5 family lineup, which is powered by a Qualcomm DragonWing processor.  ONVIF: Standardising the future of AI and cloud ONVIF continues to lead the charge in establishing common languages for the security industry. A major focus is their new "Cloud Profile," which enables cameras to connect directly to the cloud through a standardized protocol. They are also expanding into audio standards to ensure IP-based speakers can seamlessly connect to Video Management Systems (VMS). To combat the rise of sophisticated digital manipulation, ONVIF is developing "video signing" standards. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standardsThis feature protects the integrity of video for evidentiary purposes by embedding a digital signature and timestamp directly into the footage at the camera level. Additionally, the organization has formed an AI Working Group to develop common communication methods for "AI agents" within physical security systems. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standards. Roberto Licari is the new ONVIF Ambassador, seeking to attract new companies (even outside the security sector) to ONVIF as they look to expand their offerings. SwiftConnect: Bridging digital and physical identity SwiftConnect is redefining access control by shifting the focus from physical cards to digital identity. As a cloud-based "connected access network," the platform bridges the gap between IT identity providers (like Okta or Azure AD) and legacy physical access control systems. At the show's Security Experience Center demonstrations, SwiftConnect showcased its ability to integrate mobile credentials within Apple and Google Wallets across multiple technology platforms. By aligning physical security with Zero Trust principles, they ensure that access is governed by the same rigorous standards as digital networks. Their software-centric approach allows for a more seamless employee experience while simplifying the management of complex, multi-site building security. This emphasises a future where the mobile device becomes the primary tool for navigating the physical workspace. Wasabi Technologies: Redefining cloud storage economics With cloud technology becoming a baseline requirement at every booth, Wasabi Technologies highlighted its "hot cloud storage" as a cost-effective alternative to major hyperscalers. Their model claims to be 80% less expensive than competitors, notably removing hidden fees. Wasabi is increasingly bundled at the "back end" of security solutions through partnerships with integrators and end users. A key feature for law enforcement and high-security sectors is their "Object Lock" capability, which ensures that video evidence remains untampered with and immutable during defined retention periods. By providing high-performance storage without the unpredictable costs typically associated with the cloud, Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications that require long-term, secure retention. Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications ZKTeco USA: Versatile and integrated access ZKTeco USA showcased a range of integrated solutions, including turnstiles, visitor management, and access control. Their Atlas access control series offers versatility, supporting everything from traditional readers and keypads to QR codes and fingerprint scanning, with the flexibility to operate on-premise or in the cloud. For tight environments, they introduced the Mars 100 turnstile, which features a compact 2x3-foot footprint. They also highlighted the Omni series, an all-in-one standalone reader-controller that manages access, intercom, and visitor functions in a single device. Innovation in portability was evident in their new walk-through metal detectors, which consist of two poles with an 8-hour battery life—ideal for schools and temporary events. While they offer their own Armatura readers, ZKTeco emphasized that their solutions can integrate with other industry leaders to fit diverse customer needs.

2025 was another impactful year for mergers and acquisitions (M&As) in the security industry, which is undergoing an enormous transformation as global pioneers prioritise specialized technology to drive future growth.  The year 2025 has been defined by massive corporate reorganisations, most notably Honeywell and Resideo spinning off core divisions to unlock shareholder value. Simultaneously, an aggressive wave of mergers and acquisitions is reshaping the landscape, with giants like ASSA ABLOY and Motorola Solutions absorbing innovators in AI-driven surveillance, cloud-native access control, and identity management. From residential security shifts to critical infrastructure enhancements, this article will summarise how these strategic moves signal a decisive industry pivot toward integrated and intelligent security ecosystems. Resideo to spin off ADI business Resideo Technologies, Inc. announced its intention to separate its ADI Global Distribution business from its Products & Solutions (P&S) business via a tax-free spin-off to shareholders. The separation is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026. P&S will continue as Resideo, a building products manufacturer of residential controls The goal is to unlock value, enhance operational performance, and improve strategic flexibility for both entities. After the separation, P&S will continue as Resideo, a building products manufacturer of residential controls and sensing solutions. ADI will become an independent public company and remain a global wholesale distributor of low-voltage products, including security and audio-visual solutions. Honeywell separates into three companies There are big changes pending at Honeywell, another global security industry company. Honeywell announced plans to separate its Automation and Aerospace businesses into two independent, publicly traded companies following a comprehensive portfolio evaluation. Combined with the previously announced spin-off of Advanced Materials, this strategy will create three distinct industry pioneers. The Automation and Aerospace separation is targeted for completion in the second half of 2026 as a tax-free transaction for shareholders. The largest portion of Honeywell’s traditional security business (cameras, access control, and fire safety) sits within the Building Automation segment of the new Honeywell Automation company. This unit includes products from recent major acquisitions, such as LenelS2. SimpliSafe’s new chapter SimpliSafe has agreed to be acquired by private equity firm GTCR from Hellman & Friedman SimpliSafe has agreed to be acquired by private equity firm GTCR from Hellman & Friedman, another private equity firm. As the third largest U.S. residential security provider, SimpliSafe will continue under the leadership of the current CEO, while its founders remain significant investors.  GTCR, an experienced security industry investor, intends to support the company’s expansion and continued innovation in AI-powered, DIY home protection. This marks a new chapter in SimpliSafe’s mission to provide professional monitoring without long-term contracts. SimpliSafe is GTCR’s fifth investment in the security alarm industry, including prior investments in residential-focused security companies SecurityLink and Protection1, along with commercial-focused security companies HSM and Everon. Motorola grows technology portfolio Motorola Solutions grew its portfolio through acquisitions in 2025. The industry giant strategically expanded its safety and security ecosystem through the acquisition of four specialized technology firms. The company acquired Blue Eye to integrate AI-driven remote video monitoring and 24/7 security operations into its threat detection workflows. To support frontline workers, Motorola added Theatro’s voice-powered communication platform, which complements existing mobile and video technologies. Motorola further bolster its public safety capabilities with the acquisition of RapidDeploy, a cloud-native Next Generation 911 provider that offers real-time caller mapping and data analytics to accelerate emergency responses. Motorola also agreed to acquire InVisit to enhance its Avigilon Alta suite with cloud-based visitor management, streamlining guest registration and blocklist screening for enterprise security. These acquisitions aim to unify detection, communication, and response across various sectors, including retail, healthcare, and critical infrastructure. Allied sells majority stake in AMAG Allied Universal sold a majority stake in AMAG Technology to Shore Rock Partners In December, Allied Universal sold a majority stake in AMAG Technology to Shore Rock Partners. Shore Rock is a growth investor focused on critical infrastructure, with strategic backing from BellTower Partners. Allied Universal will retain a significant minority share. The sale is intended to allow 54-year-old AMAG, which provides integrated access control, identity, guest, and video management solutions, to operate independently from Allied Universal's services-based model for long-term growth. Shore Rock's plan is to invest in advancing AMAG's product line and customer relationships. With this transaction, David Sullivan, AMAG's President, will become CEO. Everon acquires ADT multifamily segment Commercial security provider Everon announced in September that it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the business-to-business (B2B) multifamily segment from ADT. This acquisition is a strategic extension that expands Everon's reach in the valuable multifamily market. It will allow the company to offer a more comprehensive portfolio of tailored solutions, including access control, video surveillance, and self-guided tour capabilities. Everon's CEO states that the deal enables them to help property owners and managers increase net operating income and improve operational efficiency. Dormakaba acquires TANlock and Avant-Garde Dormakaba, a global provider of access solutions, acquired TANlock GmbH in July Dormakaba, a global provider of access solutions, acquired TANlock GmbH in July. TANlock is a German firm specializing in innovative high-security access solutions for data centers and other critical infrastructure. The acquisition strengthens Dormakaba’s presence in the data center market.  TANlock's intelligent system provides enhanced server cabinet security using electromechanical rack locks and various authentication modules. This solution is scalable, future-proof, and can be integrated into existing IT infrastructures for both retrofits and new installations. Dormakaba also agreed to acquire Indiana-based Avant-Garde Systems Inc. to strengthen its North American entrance control portfolio. This move bolsters Dormakaba’s presence in high-growth sectors like airports and data centers. Acre acquires REKS for AI Recent M&A activity also reflects the growing importance of artificial intelligence. For example, Acre Security acquired REKS, a purpose-built generative AI solution designed to transform access control, allowing professionals to use natural language queries for instant data insights. Integrated into Acre’s cloud-native ecosystem, this AI-powered platform prioritises data privacy while streamlining operations. Led by a new AI Development Team, Acre plans to expand these capabilities into intrusion detection and visitor management. Two acquisitions for Allegion Global security provider Allegion, through one of its subsidiaries, completed the acquisition of ELATEC Global security provider Allegion, through one of its subsidiaries, completed the acquisition of ELATEC, a manufacturer of security and access technology, specializing in RFID credentials and readers solutions designed in Germany and sold globally.  ELATEC’s portfolio of readers leverages their internally developed software stack and ensures compatibility with nearly 100 credential types, making the company a pioneer in interoperability, which aligns well with Allegion’s partner-of-choice strategy. Allegion, also through one of its subsidiaries, acquired Brisant Secure Limited, a security hardware provider in the United Kingdom. Senstar acquires Blickfeld for LiDAR sensors Senstar Technologies Corporation has agreed to acquire Blickfeld, a specialist in 3D LiDAR sensors and software. Expected to close in Q1 2026, the acquisition integrates Blickfeld’s hardware into Senstar’s advanced security ecosystem. This strategic move expands Senstar’s addressable market into volume monitoring and traffic applications while enhancing its AI-powered situational awareness capabilities. Following the transaction, Blickfeld will operate largely independently as a subsidiary. ASSA ABLOY continues acquisition spree Global giant ASSA ABLOY was probably the most active company in the M&A market in 2025 Global giant ASSA ABLOY was probably the most active company in the M&A market in 2025, demonstrating aggressive market growth, strategically reinforcing its core business, and expanding its technological footprint across the global security marketplace. The acquisitions delivered on the company's strategy to strengthen its position in mature markets by integrating complementary products and solutions. A major theme for ASSA ABLOY was the enhancement of the door and perimeter security portfolio, particularly in the Americas. This effort included acquiring US-based Metal Products Inc. (MPI) for custom-made hollow metal doors and frames and International Door Products (IDP) for fire-rated steel door frames, both in the fall. Earlier in the year, ASSA ABLOY gained a stronger presence in Central Canada with the addition of Wallace & Wallace and Wallace Perimeter Security, a manufacturer, distributor, and installer of perimeter fencing, door, and gate solutions. The Entrance Systems Division also saw expansion with the acquisition of Belgium’s Kingspan Door Components, a manufacturer of sectional door panels. Furthermore, Door System, a Danish manufacturer of high-quality fire-rated doors, was signed for acquisition in the spring. Cloud-based platform ASSA ABLOY also made significant moves in electronic and access control solutions. Early 2025 saw two key acquisitions: Uhlmann & Zacher, a German supplier of access control handles and knobs, and InVue, a US-based provider of connected asset protection and access control solutions. Reinforcing this segment, SiteOwl, a pioneering cloud-based platform for physical security lifecycle management, was acquired in the summer. The spring acquisition of Pedestal PRO, a US manufacturer of access control pedestals and mounting solutions, further strengthens the electromechanical offerings in the Americas. ASSA ABLOY bolstered its capabilities in remote care technology with Germany’s TeleAlarm Group in late spring. HID Global expands in 2025 HID Global, a subsidiary of ASSA ABLOY, was also active on the M&A front in 2025 HID Global, a subsidiary of ASSA ABLOY, was also active on the M&A front in 2025, aggressively driving the convergence of physical and digital identity solutions and signaling a clear roadmap for security professionals. HID's move to purchase Vancouver-based IDmelon, announced in the autumn of 2025, targets the critical need for robust logical access control. IDmelon’s proprietary software platform transforms everyday identifiers, including existing physical credentials, smartphones, or biometrics, directly into enterprise-level FIDO (Fast IDentity Online) security keys. This approach streamlines an organization’s transition to phishing-resistant, passwordless multi-factor authentication (MFA) and minimizes the need for disruptive changes by integrating physical and digital access into a single, cohesive solution. Safer patient experience Separate from its focus on digital access, HID also bolstered its Identification Technologies Business Area by acquiring the Calmell Group. Calmell is a long-established manufacturer specializing in smart cards, smart paper, and magnetic tickets for the public transportation sector. This addition is expected to expand HID’s footprint and relevance in global public transportation ecosystems, allowing the Barcelona-headquartered firm to leverage HID’s core expertise in digital credentials to drive future-proof solutions for seamless mobility. Also, HID acquired Intelligent Observation to expand its Healthcare Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) portfolio. Intelligent Observation provides a platform to reduce hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) by tracking hand hygiene compliance. The system uses wearable Near-Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) devices and a cloud-based SaaS dashboard. This technology records and reports if healthcare workers sanitize appropriately, providing granular compliance data to administrators to enable a safer patient experience.

Multiple technology trends are transforming the physical access control market. There is a fundamental shift away from physical cards and keys toward digital identities — mobile credentials, digital wallets, biometrics, and cloud-native access platforms. These next generation access solutions are radically reshaping how buildings operate, protect staff, and perform functionally. At the same time, AI and analytics solutions are being layered onto these physical access control systems to support predictive threat detection and behavioral insights. Access data itself is becoming an asset for sustainability, space optimization, and smart building initiatives. Risk, impact operations and experience The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues. The survey cites improving user convenience as a priority for nearly half of organizations, while 41% are focused on simplifying administration, and 28% struggle with system integration. These are not theoretical challenges, they are day‑to‑day friction points that add cost, increase risk, impact operations and experience, and, of course, must be addressed. HID Global’s commercial focus HID Global’s commercial focus is to help organizations digitize their access control — with mobile identities, biometrics, and cloud platforms — and then to use the data to deliver more value. “We are turning access control from an operational cost into a software-driven asset that improves efficiency, supports Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals and even creates new revenue opportunities,” says Steven Commander, HID Global’s Head of Consultant Relations. The impact of digital transformation Digital transformation is the method of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials Digital transformation is in the process of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials to a software-driven, integrated experience. The transformation strengthens security while also improving user convenience — transforming the “pavement to the desk” journey. HID enables this shift through mobile credentials, biometrics, cloud-native platforms, and solutions that allow third-party applications to run on door hardware. “This helps customers turn access data into operational and commercial outcomes, while also improving the overall user experience,” says Commander.  Digital transformation in access control is not focused on chasing the latest trends. Rather, transformation is about turning software, data and integration into outcomes that matter to customers, says HID. “Security becomes stronger and more adaptive,” says Commander. “Operations become simpler and more cost‑effective. Experiences become seamless and consistent. Sustainability moves from ambition to action. And the financial case becomes clearer as efficiencies are banked and new value streams emerge.” The challenge of futureproofing with long lifecycles Given that physical security technologies will be in place for 15 to 20 years, it is important to plan for how systems can evolve over time. Considering how rapidly security threats, compliance standards, and user expectations change, 15 to 20 years is a long time. The decisions made at the beginning of a system’s lifecycle can either limit flexibility later (which will be costly) or enable long-term adaptability. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important Choosing products and platforms that are open, interoperable, and designed for updates can enable future-proof projects. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important.  In addition, systems built on open controller platforms — such as Mercury — enable organizations to switch software providers or expand functionality without replacing core door hardware. Architectural openness is key to system lifecycles and maximizing the return on investment (ROI) from a chosen solution. Digital credentials and mobile access Flexibility and upgradeability should also be top of mind when it comes to endpoints like access control readers. While RFID cards are still commonplace, there is a clear trend toward digital credentials and mobile access. Readers that support both allow organizations to transition at their own pace, without committing to a full system overhaul. A long system lifecycle does not mean technology should remain static. Security, particularly cybersecurity, demands more frequent updates. Technologies that support firmware upgrades in the field extend the value of a deployment while helping organizations keep pace with emerging threats. In that sense, lifecycle thinking is not just about longevity — it’s about maintaining resilience and readiness over time. Applying biometrics and mobile identities Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction. Many organizations are now deploying biometrics to support fast, seamless access journeys, with adoption already around 39% in access control according to HID’s recent research.  In addition, 80% of organizations surveyed expect to deploy mobile identities within the next five years. Full technology integration enables tap‑to‑access without opening an app; the user journey becomes faster, safer, and more convenient. “It is where the industry is headed and we are at the vanguard of this,” says Commander.    Ongoing challenge of cybersecurity At HID Global, cybersecurity is embedded into everything, from corporate processes and development practices to the solutions they bring to market. “Our approach ensures that customers can strengthen their overall security posture, not only by deploying secure products but by benefitting from HID’s commitment to the highest industry standards,” says Commander. HID holds multiple globally recognized certifications, including ISO 27001, ISO 14298, SOC Type 2, and CSA STAR, which demonstrate their robust information security and cloud security practices. In addition, HID’s SEOS® secure chipset is independently SEAL-certified, providing one of the most advanced levels of protection available on the market today. “Ultimately, this means organizations are not just purchasing isolated secure products; they are implementing solutions developed and delivered within a comprehensive, cybersecure framework,” says Commander. “When deployed according to best practices, HID solutions enable customers to achieve the highest levels of resilience against evolving physical and cyber threats.” Developing green and sustainable solutions A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards Digital credentials align with the sustainable solutions that everyone wants. A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards. Over 550 million access cards are sold annually. This creates 2,700 tons of plastic waste and 11,400 tons of carbon, based on a PVC card weighing 5 grams.  Therefore, digital credentials self-evidently reduce the reliance on plastic cards (helping reduce carbon emissions by up to 75% according to HID’s research), while leveraging access control system data supports energy optimization by shutting down or reducing systems in unused spaces. Energy use and CO₂ emissions can be cut dramatically, showing how access systems can contribute to sustainability goals and green building certification. What is the latest in smart buildings? Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services. Real-time access data enables new services such as automated room bookings, HVAC control, lift/elevator calling, e-bike hiring, and so on. Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services The financial upside is clear; smart, digitally transformed buildings can deliver around 8% higher yields per square foot versus traditional office space. Operational savings accrue from reduced administration, the removal of card production and shipping, and lighter IT support. This creates a value cycle — better experiences drive adoption, adoption fuels monetization, and monetization funds further improvements. Achieving technology impact in the real world One standout project is One Bangkok – a $3.9 billion mixed-use development in Thailand – which demonstrates the scale of what can be achieved when access control data is used for optimization, particularly when it comes to monitoring facilities usage and occupier behaviors. By switching lights off or lowering the temperature in unused rooms, for example, the One Bangkok building demonstrates this potential with a 22% reduction in energy consumption, saving 17,000 MWh and 9,000 tons of CO₂ annually.  Sustainability is a key factor in contributing to how properties are valued. And sustainability extends far beyond digital credentials having a lower environmental impact than plastic cards.  Buildings with recognized sustainability certifications often command rental premiums of around 6%, and three‑quarters of security decision‑makers now consider environmental impact in their procurement assessments.

Genetec Inc., the global pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces that TEPCO Power Grid has deployed Genetec™ Security Center as the foundation for a next-generation physical security platform that supports its broader digital transformation strategy and scales with its growing operational requirements. The platform will centralize management of more than 30,000 cameras and support future innovation across the TEPCO Power Grid network of 1,600 substations and service centers. TEPCO Power Grid manages and operates the transmission and distribution network that delivers electricity from power plants to homes and businesses across the Tokyo metropolitan area. The company is using advanced technologies to improve operational efficiency, strengthen disaster response, and modernise critical infrastructure. Modernising critical infrastructure As its camera network expanded over the years, TEPCO Power Grid needed a platform capable of supporting large-scale camera management, integrating with image analysis technologies, and expanding access to video across a broader range of devices. After evaluating several options, the company selected Genetec Security Center for its functionality, scalability, proven track record, and customization capabilities through its software development kit. “The response from users has been very positive, and we're already seeing new ideas emerge for how the system can be used across the organization. Beyond supporting our current operations, we see an opportunity to leverage accumulated video data alongside AI technologies to support future operational and technology initiatives, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with Genetec,” said Tomoyuki Soma, Group Manager, System Development General Affairs Group, System Development Center, DX Promotion Department, TEPCO Power Grid. Improving operational efficiency TEPCO Power Grid selected Security Center for its scalability and open architecture. The platforms broad camera support allowed the company to bring together camera models from multiple manufacturers into a unified environment, helping preserve existing hardware investments while giving teams room to evolve. The Security Center software development kit also enables the company to customize the system and integrate additional technologies as requirements evolve. Security Center gives TEPCO Power Grid a unified view of its camera network while allowing teams across the region to support sites in their respective areas. Activities such as adding cameras and updating maps, which were previously managed centrally, can now be performed by individual workplaces, helping improve operational efficiency. Digital transformation strategy Authorized personnel can also use the Security Center web app to view video from computers and mobile devices. During an incident or emergency, managers and field teams can remotely assess the situation and coordinate their response. The platform also helps teams identify camera malfunctions across the network, making it easier to locate and address issues TEPCO’s 1,600 geographically dispersed sites. In addition to video management, the company sees potential opportunities to leverage accumulated video data and integrate emerging technologies as operational requirements evolve. The company is also evaluating additional capabilities available within the Security Center platform as part of its longer-term digital transformation strategy.

The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn is one of the four Inns of Court and operates as an active and thriving society of lawyers, sprawling across 11 acres in central London and dating as far back as 1422. The title of “Lincoln’s Inn” refers both to the Society and the location, which houses the Society’s own facilities, numerous barristers’ chambers and several solicitors’ offices. The Inns of Court originally provided accommodation for law students who learned their craft by attending court. Different levels of security Today, the Inns exist to aid students in pursuing the legal profession and serve as landlord, custodian of historic buildings, banqueting and events venue, and tourist attraction. To fulfill these many functions, Lincoln’s Inn required security that would meet their own high standards while protecting buildings that had been in continuous operation for centuries. As the Inn not only provides services to law students, but also operates as an attraction and a hosting venue, many different levels of security need to be in place for a variety of users—full-time employees, temporary contractors, event staff, students, and others. For this reason, it was essential that Lincoln’s Inn have a comprehensive system to track and monitor their many keys for the extensive venue. Improving key control For some time, keys at Lincoln’s Inn were managed manually through an analog system, with staff retrieving keys from an open cabinet and recording key usage with pen and paper. However, because at times manual recordkeeping can be less than diligent, this allowed for confusion as to who had what keys when, and made it possible for keys to be stashed away or used by unauthorized persons. With the variety and quantity of people moving throughout Lincoln’s Inn on any given day, a more secure solution was needed. To update and improve key control, Chief Porter Nicholas Bracey turned to the KeyWatcher Touch key control system by Morse Watchmans. Key storage and management “KeyWatcher Touch provides us with a fully secure means of key storage and management. We considered a number of products on the market and found the Morse Watchmans solution to be the most flexible and easy to use system,” said Mr. Bracey. “The high quality and ease of scalability were two of the top features we required, and the KeyWatcher Touch was a perfect fit for our key control needs.” Lincoln’s Inn installed two KeyWatcher Touch units configured for a total of 192 keys or keyrings in January 2016, and the system has been in daily use since the installation. It utilizes the Inn’s IT network and is fully integrated with the PCs in the security office and the office of the Chief Porter in order to provide maximum flexibility and ease of use. Providing maximum flexibility Tracking keys as they were removed and returned was a top concern, so the ability of the KeyWatcher to record who has removed what key and when was exceptionally important. “The keys are always secure, rather than being openly accessible to staff. There is no longer paperwork to be managed for logging, it is all taken care of with the KeyWatcher software,” continued Mr. Bracey. “Audits and reports are fast and accurate, and it has led to our staff becoming more responsible overall.” KeyWatcher Touch has provided Lincoln’s Inn with the functionality and security it requires to easily manage its 192 keys, while also providing an easily accessible audit trail. In addition, the system has proven hardy and resilient in daily use over two years. “We have had continuity with Morse Watchmans since day one,” finished Mr. Bracey. “Demonstrations of function, installation, and training were all handled almost entirely by the same representative, in addition to subsequent orders. The continuously exceptional service has ensured that we were getting exactly the product that would best serve Lincoln’s Inn and provide us with the security we need.” KeyWatcher Touch Features: Email and SMS Notifications Scheduled Reports via Email or SMS Centralized User Database Scalable, Modular Design

In a move to modernise campus operations and create a smoother experience for students and staff, Peru’s National Agrarian University has deployed a comprehensive Hikvision smart campus solution. From streamlined access to safer transportation, the university is building a safer, connected and efficient campus environment. Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina (National Agrarian University) is one of Peru's most respected academic institutions. Its 102-hectare campus operates more like a small city than a traditional university, serving eight faculties, around 8,000 students, and about 600 teachers every day. Campus bus operations As campus activity continued to grow, the university wanted a more modern and efficient way to manage daily operations. Previously, visitor and vehicle access relied heavily on manual checks and handwritten records. The university also wanted better visibility over campus bus operations and more effective support for security teams patrolling the large campus area. Their goals included: Streamlining pedestrian and vehicle access Equipping patrol teams with mobile tools to enable them to respond to incidents faster Enhancing safety and visibility across campus bus operations Centralizing management through a single unified platform To achieve these, the university worked with system integrator Consorcio Valtar Security y Serinfortel to deploy a unified Hikvision smart campus solution. Anti-tailgating functions To improve pedestrian access, the university installed 18 Hikvision Pro Swing Barriers (DS-K3B530X) and 28 Face Recognition Terminals (DS-K5671-ZV) at the main and side entrances. The solution helps students and staff move through gates quickly while improving entry management. The facial recognition terminals support recognition speeds of less than 0.2 seconds per user and accuracy rates above 99%. Anti-tailgating functions, which prevent people slipping in behind others, helps ensure only authorized individuals can enter. LED indicators, meanwhile, provide visual indicators guide people through the turnstiles in order to avoid bottlenecks. To further streamline visitor handling, the university deployed a Visitor Terminal (DS-K5032-D) together with an Enrolments Station (DS-K1F600U-D6E-F) at the main entrance. The dual-screen visitor terminal supports paperless registration, helping security staff process guests more efficiently while reducing manual paperwork. At the same time, the enrollment station simplifies face enrollment and user management through an easy-to-use touch-screen interface. Anti-hitting protection mechanisms For vehicle access, Hikvision deployed 6 ANPR Cameras (DS-TCG406-E(S)) together with 6 Barrier Gates (DS-TMG520-H/B) at two campus entrances. The system automatically recognises license plates and manages vehicle access in real time, helping reduce waiting times and improve traffic flow. Staff vehicles can be pre-registered through the university’s app, allowing smoother entry during peak hours. Adjustable barrier speeds and multiple anti-hitting protection mechanisms also help improve operational safety. To further improve the driver experience, LED Screens (DS-TVL224-4-5Y) display welcome messages and vehicle information in real time. Because of the campus’s large size, motorcycle patrol teams play an important role in maintaining daily operations and responding quickly across different areas. To support these teams, the university has deployed 10 Hikvision Ultra Series Body Cameras (DS-MH2311) together with 2 Dock Stations (DS-MDS001). Several features make this solution particularly suitable for mobile patrol work: Clear 2 MP video recording with a wide 129° horizontal field of view Up to 8 hours of recording with a removable 3,300 mAh battery Wireless connectivity for improved communication Real-time positioning support through GPS Centralized charging, storage, and evidence upload through dock stations Professional campus operations The cameras are mainly used during routine motorcycle patrols and when responding to incidents on campus. Recorded footage helps clearly document security procedures and provides reliable records of how situations were handled, supporting transparent and professional campus operations. The university has also upgraded safety across its fleet of 11 campus buses with Hikvision onboard solutions. Each bus is equipped with: Mobile Dome Cameras (DS-2XM6726G1-IM/ND) and Mobile Network Cameras (DS-2XM6522G1-ID): These provide real-time HD video coverage inside and outside the buses, helping operators monitor passenger boarding, alighting, and road conditions clearly. DSM Camera (AE-VC1B1I-ISF(RJ45)): This improves driving safety by detecting critical safety indicators such as fatigue, distractions, and smoking. When potential risks are identified, alerts are immediately issued to the driver, helping encourage safer driving practices during daily routes. Touch Monitor (AE-MW1203): Drivers can view live camera feeds through the monitor. The display automatically switches to relevant views when doors open or when reversing, helping drivers monitor passenger movement and blind spots more effectively. Alarm Button (DS-1530HMI(AE)(O-NEU)): It allows drivers to immediately notify the control center for rapid assistance in emergency situations. Mobile NVR (AE-MN5043(1T/SSD)(RJ45)(O-STD)): This records and stores video while also supporting GPS positioning, geofencing, and route monitoring through Google Maps integration. Campus bus management Every solution, from access control and patrol operations to campus bus management, is centrally managed through HikCentral Professional. From this single platform, the university can: Monitor access events in real time Manage user permissions and visitor records Track campus buses through GIS-based maps Receive centralized alarms and event notifications Coordinate faster responses across campus According to the university, the solution has significantly improved operational visibility and coordination across the campus. “With Hikvision’s smart campus solution, we now have a much more efficient and connected way to manage daily campus operations,” says Joseph Jimy Ordóñez Blanco, General Coordinator of the University’s Security Unit. “From access management to transportation safety, the platform gives our teams better visibility, faster response capabilities, and greater confidence in maintaining a safe environment for students and staff.”

PPLD serves El Paso County across multiple branches — from busy urban libraries to new rural buildings. Its security program, built on systems dating back to the late 1980s, had to keep pace with a fast-growing footprint. “I don’t know that we would have been able to get to the point where we had everything we wanted deployed if we didn’t have tech like this,” said Michael Brantner, Chief Facilities & Security Officer, Pikes Peak Library District. Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) is one of Colorado Springs’ most-used public institutions, serving the El Paso County community across multiple branches with 780 cameras and more than 150 doors under active monitoring. Their physical security program had been trying to keep pace. Legacy systems dating back to the late 1980s. Cameras and access control systems that didn’t talk to each other. A small team buried under too many alarms. The model was reactive, and it was overdue for a rethink. Legacy security technology The challenge - PPLD’s footprint was growing in a few ways, through new construction and the addition of more rural buildings under its umbrella – and Chief Facilities & Security Officer Michael Brantner needed more visibility across all of the buildings. Combining the systems in place to protect these locations, plus the new ones, required a new approach: bring decades of legacy security technology into a unified, modern operation that could scale alongside the district’s growth. PPLD wanted to centralize the management of the district’s security function, which led Michael to explore the creation of a new security operations center (SOC). “We had a lot of technology that didn’t talk to each other,” Michael said. “We wanted to be able to consolidate it into one place where we can manage what’s happening across our sites.” Consolidate disconnected systems When he started building PPLD’s SOC, the mandate was clear: bring decades of legacy security technology into a unified, modern operation that could scale alongside the district’s growth. But he also needed to consolidate disconnected systems, prove ROI to the C-suite, and staff and train a team that could actually move the program forward. At the time, PPLD’s setup was a patchwork: Cloud-based cameras and access control sitting next to legacy equipment, with no shared view across them Operators who were refreshing screens to see new alarms Panic alerts, door alarms, and intercom calls each requiring a different screen, a different workflow, and a different response Notifications were inconsistent Response times couldn’t be measured No centralized SOC to manage alarms cohesively Residents experiencing homelessness Most incoming alarms generated by PPLD’s ACS were false: held-open doors, cleaning crews, and after-hours trip alarms. But every single alarm still demanded a response from someone on the team, even if there was no safety issue. The complexity was real. PPLD’s branches serve a diverse community that includes families, students, and residents experiencing homelessness across locations with very different security profiles. Some deal with routine access events. Others face behavioral incidents, policy enforcement issues, and higher alarm volumes. Across all of them, public spaces had to stay public, and private staff areas had to stay private. Those boundaries need to be enforced, all day, every day. Access control systems The solution - As Michael stood up PPLD’s new SOC, HiveWatch stood out as a way to centralize the security program and allowed the growing team a single, active view of every incident across every system. The platform connected directly to PPLD’s existing cameras and access control systems. This meant operators were able to view door alarms, access events, video clips, panic alerts, and environmental sensors (including vape and smoke detection) in one single incident list in a web-based browser. Instead of refreshing screens and guessing at what they might have missed, operators could see every active incident and incoming alarm the moment it surfaced and respond from the same place. Killing redundant alerts Alarm deduplication cut volume on day one, killing redundant alerts before they hit an operator. Noisy doors became easy to spot and fix. When specific issues surfaced, like a flood of DHO alarms, for instance, the system helped the SOC adjust alarm timing. That adaptability, tuned to actual door and user behavior without loosening security, kept the program compliant and cut the alarm load the SOC had to manage. Operators, along with field officers, made use of the mobile app, too. The team’s ability to acknowledge, investigate, and resolve incidents from anywhere in the building was a huge benefit. Security triage stopped being tied to a desk. Response became coordinated, in real time, across every location. Standard operating procedure But the shift went beyond operations. For the first time, PPLD’s leadership had detailed data on its security program: response times, alarm volumes, and incident trends. Michael could walk into a leadership meeting with numbers that proved the program’s value. He could spot which operators were hitting targets, which branches were generating outliers, and where more operator or officer training was needed. “We aren’t just operators staring at cameras anymore. HiveWatch lets us cut through the noise, focus on what matters, and actually expand what our team can do,” said Joe Vickous, SOC Supervisor, Pikes Peak Library District. Single active queue Every shift, PPLD’s operators manage a single active queue. Door forced at a branch. Vape detection in a restroom. Held-open back door after a cleaning crew shift change. An intercom call from a side entrance. All surfaced in one view without screen-refreshing or system-hopping. When an access control alert comes in, the response is immediate. The operator sees the alert with the connected camera feed in the same view, follows the built-in standard operating procedure (SOP), and, if warranted, dispatches the field officer with full context from within the platform. Audible alerts mean the SOC can run HiveWatch in a single tab without sacrificing a full monitor, freeing operators to handle more important work like footage pulls, door testing, and badge creation between incidents. Badge creation between incidents “HiveWatch makes the operators more flexible and makes them more versatile, as well,” Michael said. “They’re able to focus on something else and it will prompt them and say, hey, pay attention. We have to interact. They can check it out, dispatch somebody, and then go back to what they’re doing.” And when something crosses the public-private line, such as a patron drifting into a staff-only corridor, the platform surfaces it in real time. The operator sees it, the field officer responds, and the boundary holds. Public stays public. Private stays private. No guessing. No discovery after the fact. Incidents are caught early, handled according to protocol, and documented with a full record attached. “The biggest benefit for us is having the tool that sorts through the noise and focuses the operators on the notifications that are actually coming in that need attention,” Branter said. Standard operating procedure The results: Median time to acknowledge incidents of 21 seconds and median time to resolve of 28 seconds using HiveWatch. Scaled the SOC from 2 operators to 6 plus a manager, with the platform absorbing the workload increase. Extended the SOC beyond the control room with mobile triage and response for field officers and operators. Equipped leadership with real-time data on acknowledgement and response times, and alarm trends, turning a reactive program into a proactive, measurable one. Positioned the program to absorb 800 additional cameras and access points without proportional headcount growth.

As Missouri’s largest and busiest aviation facility, St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) welcomed more than 15 million passengers in 2025. To implement a digital 360-degree surveillance system and secure over 70 million square feet of airport infrastructure, STL required a solution capable of covering vast spatial areas while significantly reducing infrastructure costs and complexity. At the same time, the airport aims to implement AI-applications to optimize its operations. With Dallmeier’s Panomera® multifocal sensor technology, STL achieved comprehensive high-resolution coverage with approximately 90 % fewer cameras and 75 % less infrastructure compared to the original surveillance design. Video security system Due to the continuous growth in passenger numbers, the STL Operations and Security Teams decided to modernise the existing video security system in June of 2018 in two areas: Firstly, in surface parking areas to increase customer safety and eliminate criminal activity such as vandalism and theft. The second solution targeted the airport’s four runways, the taxiways, and all terminal buildings to monitor the activities of aircraft, ground vehicles, and airport personnel. STL Airport Operations Team contacted their security integrator, Tech Electronics, to design and deploy an updated camera solution. The initial design used a combination of PTZ and single sensor IP cameras and would have required more than 130 cameras in total. From an infrastructure perspective, this would have required the installation of more than 42 new camera poles and the corresponding infrastructure (cable, network, power, etc.). The airside solution required significantly more technology to achieve the desired surveillance coverage. So, STL and Tech Electronics decided to look for another, more economical solution. Desired surveillance coverage During their technology search, STL discovered the Dallmeier Panomera® multifocal sensor technology, which was developed specifically for surveillance of large spatial areas using the fewest number of cameras to achieve the required surveillance coverage.  David Kulinsky, Deputy Director of Operations & Maintenance at STL, recalls: “When we discovered Panomera® and saw that one Panomera® camera can capture large areas at high resolution and replace several single-sensor cameras, including the costly infrastructure, it became clear that Panomera® provided STL a more economical solution with higher quality images at a lower overall cost.” Intuitive user experience The test installation at the airport proved the image quality of the Panomera®. Kevin Hubble, Services Manager for STL with Tech Electronics, comments: “I was surprised at how few Panomera® cameras were needed to replace several PTZs and single sensor cameras and display the images in a much more user-friendly format. The SeMSy® Compact VMS software enables the user to view a single high-resolution image of the entire scene with simple digital PTZ controls to ‘zoom’ into any part of the image in greater detail. The result is an intuitive user experience resulting in greater operational efficiency – not to mention the superior high resolution video coverage.” To date, STL has installed more than 27 Panomera® cameras. Multiple IPS 10000 recording appliances and 5 user workstations with the SeMSy® Compact VMS client software complete the video system. Compared to the original planning, this resulted in approximately 90 % reduction in the number of cameras and approximately 75 % reduction in infrastructure required for the installation. Comprehensive situational awareness A particular highlight of the deployment is STL’s digital 360-degree surveillance concept. Using only ten Panomera® cameras, the airport achieves comprehensive situational awareness across large airside areas including runways, taxiways and apron operations.  Unlike conventional camera concepts that require numerous PTZ and single-sensor cameras, Panomera® delivers a complete high-resolution overview in a single seamless image. This enables operators to monitor critical airport activities more efficiently across large spatial areas, while significantly reducing infrastructure complexity, maintenance effort and overall operating costs. AI-based video analysis Beyond security applications, STL is also evaluating Panomera® technology for operational process optimization inside the terminals. As part of a planned deployment in the ticketing area, a Panomera® V8 system will support AI-based video analysis functions such as passenger flow and waiting time analysis. The objective is to improve operational efficiency, optimize check-in processes and enhance the passenger experience — while leveraging the same high-resolution surveillance infrastructure already deployed throughout the airport. Video information technology David Kulinsky with STL summarises: “Any technology project at an airport must deliver a solution that is operationally efficient, resilient, and built for long-term performance. Our decision to deploy Panomera® cameras significantly enhanced overall surveillance coverage across the airport while reducing the technology and infrastructure footprint required to support it.” “The system also provides the ability to zoom into specific areas without sacrificing full-scene situational awareness or recording capabilities—an operational advantage over traditional PTZ cameras, which only record the field of view being actively monitored and can limit broader operational visibility.”  In 1984, Dieter Dallmeier founded what is now Dallmeier electronic – not in the proverbial garage, but in a garden shed in Regensburg, Germany. Today, the company, which can justifiably call itself a hidden champion for video information technology "Made in Germany", has several hundred employees worldwide, more than 250 of them at the company headquarters in the center of Regensburg alone. Digital image storage system Dallmeier's camera, recording, software, and analysis solutions optimize security and processes for B2B end customers in a wide range of industries in over 60 countries. The focus is on users from the casino, smart city, airports, logistics, stadiums, and industrial sectors. But also, banks, critical infrastructure facilities as well as medium-sized companies from all sectors. With pioneering innovations, Dallmeier has succeeded time and again in placing itself at the forefront of technology: From the world's first digital image storage system with motion analysis in 1992, the patented "multifocal sensor technology" Panomera® with its "Mountera®" mounting system, to the latest Domera® camera family, which allows up to 300 camera variants with only 18 components. Complete manufacturing process These and many other innovations provide real, tangible customer benefits. And with a low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and a high Return on Investment (ROI) they can easily compete with systems produced and supplied from low-wage countries. With "Made in Germany", we also guarantee our customers the highest standards in data protection, cybersecurity, and ethical responsibility. With high quality and short supply chains, we also ensure – almost incidentally – sustainability and environmental protection. From our prestigious headquarters in the center of Regensburg, Dallmeier not only carries out its own research and development but also the complete manufacturing process – from component to product to solution.

Evolv Technologies Holdings, Inc., a security technology company pioneering AI-based solutions designed to create safer experiences, announces that Evolv Express®, the company’s people-screening system, has been selected as a security partner in Northwestern University’s new Ryan Field following a rigorous evaluation process. As Ryan Sports Development prepares to open the first NFL-type stadium in college sports, they evaluated available screening solutions before selecting Evolv Express to help deliver an elevated fan security experience. Evolv Express uses advanced sensor technology and AI to detect concealed threats and identify the location of the potential threat while allowing people to move through checkpoints at their natural walking pace. Advanced sensor technology The New Ryan Field, in the final stages of construction, will have a capacity of 35,000 fans when it opens on October 2nd with a nationally televised game. In addition to Northwestern football games, New Ryan Field will also host other athletic and community events throughout the year. The project is designed to set a new standard for the college football experience and boasts several features and innovations fitting its ambitious vision, including the Evolv Express security systems. The multi-year agreement between Evolv and Ryan Sports Development includes a variety of marketing elements and designates Evolv as Northwestern University’s “Official Fan Screening Provider.” Exceptional arrival experience “Our goal for the New Ryan Field is simple: build the best place to watch football in America,” said Pat Ryan Jr., CEO of Ryan Sports Development. “That ambition covers not only the event itself, but also the entire time that a fan is on site. We built a stadium designed to represent the future of college athletics, and so much more, and we rigorously evaluated available screening technologies and selected Evolv Express because it aligned with our goals of delivering a secure, convenient, and exceptional arrival experience.” “When an institution invests in creating what it believes will be the premier college football venue in the country, every decision matters, including the first impression fans receive when they arrive,” said John Kedzierski, President and CEO of Evolv Technology. Ambitious stadium projects “Northwestern had the opportunity to evaluate the industry’s leading screening solutions as part of this landmark project, and we are honored that Evolv Express was selected to help deliver the elevated fan experience Ryan Field is designed to provide. It’s a testament to the strength of our technology that one of the most ambitious stadium projects in college sports chose Evolv to help welcome fans through its gates.” The New Ryan Field at Northwestern is another signature deployment on Evolv’s growing roster of higher education customers, as well as numerous stadiums, arenas, theme parks, schools, hospitals and other public spaces around the world.

Audio might detect sounds like breaking glass or footsteps before a person even enters the field-of-view of a video camera. Audio also helps to provide context: Someone running in a video image might be suspicious, but the situation is different if they are yelling for help. Furthermore, audio enables operators to talk remotely to people on site, which can deter crime, de-escalate situations, or gather information. And yet, optimizing audio is often an overlooked aspect of physical security system design. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the expanding role of audio in today's physical security systems?

Machine learning (ML) is a field within Artificial Intelligence (AI) and one of the more common buzzwords in the physical security market. ML focuses on building computer systems that can learn and improve on their own, without being explicitly programmed for every scenario. Machine learning is poised to revolutionize physical security by offering a more proactive, data-driven approach to securing people and assets. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What is Machine Learning (ML) and how can it benefit physical security? 

Headlines of violence in our schools are a reminder of the need to keep educational institutions safe. In fact, if there is a positive aspect to the constant bombardment of headlines, it is that it keeps our attention perpetually focused on how to improve school security. But what is the role of physical security systems? As the new school year begins, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Are schools safer because of physical security systems? Why or why not?