Mobile Access Trends

Highlights from GSX 2024 include cutting-edge innovation
Highlights from GSX 2024 include cutting-edge innovation

An attention-grabbing exhibit at GSX 2024 in Orlando involved a robot dog that could open a door.  Boston Dynamics robot dog ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the robotics demonstration, featuring the Boston Dynamics robot dog that could open a door using either an HID credential or a mechanical grip. This innovation represents a shift toward more autonomous security solutions and is suitable for environments where human access may be limited. ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the Boston Dynamics robot dog Operational efficiency Eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology It was one of many eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology, and offering practical solutions to the industry's challenges.  For security professionals, the advancements presented opportunities to enhance operational efficiency and to maintain a proactive stance in a rapidly evolving market.  Control ID face identification Alongside their robot demonstration, ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification.  Access Controller, providing advanced facial recognition access control. From identity management to AI-driven surveillance systems, GSX 2024 offered a glimpse into the tools that can streamline processes, increase security, and reduce costs. Here are some other highlights. ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification More integration with critical infrastructure  A major theme at GSX 2024 was the increasing integration of security solutions with critical infrastructure. ALCEA (formerly ASSA ABLOY Critical Infrastructure) is an example. Their globalised software solution ALWIN is designed for managing access control, visitor management, and other security factors across multiple locations. ALCEA's approach involves not only internal collaborations within ASSA ABLOY but also partnerships with external organisations. An example of innovation is the Neenah Foundry lockable manhole cover, blending safety and security. Solving identity management challenges  The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies Identity management continues to be a key focus in the security sector, and AMAG Technology addresses this need with its Symmetry Connect product. The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies. For professionals overseeing identity access management, Symmetry Connect provides a streamlined, automated approach, reducing human error and increasing operational efficiency. AMAG also sees a growing demand for efficient visitor management systems, especially in the post-COVID landscape. AMAG’s products cater to the need for enhanced security without overburdening staff.  AI and cloud-based surveillance solutions  Axis Communications highlighted its advancements in AI and cloud-based video management systems with its AXIS Camera Station Edge and Pro products. These solutions can connect seamlessly to cloud systems, providing security professionals with easy access to surveillance data anywhere. With the increasing need for centralised management, Axis’s offerings ensure that security teams can efficiently manage surveillance with minimal infrastructure. Axis also showcased its commitment to AI-driven analytics based on superior video quality. There were also networked audio solutions for public announcements and background music, among other uses. Body-worn cameras for corporate and school uses  Traditionally focused on law enforcement, Axon is now expanding its body-worn cameras and TASER technology into corporate and school security environments. Their Axon Body Workforce camera is a practical solution for protecting frontline workers in high-risk environments.  Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness, a significant benefit for large campuses or remote locations. As more industries adopt corporate surveillance systems, Axon’s offerings provide flexible, scalable solutions that address the need for real-time, actionable intelligence.  Cloud-based access for smart buildings  Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options Brivo showcased how cloud technology is revolutionising access control by offering systems that integrate seamlessly with other smart building platforms. Their open API approach enables collaboration with IT teams, bridging the gap between physical security and IT management. Brivo’s new partnership with Comcast Smart Solutions illustrates how large enterprises can implement advanced solutions, including access control while maintaining flexibility. For professionals managing complex building environments, Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options.  AI-powered multi-sensor camera  Hanwha focused on an AI-powered multi-sensor camera, equipped with an NVIDIA processor capable of running complex analytics. In addition, Hanwha’s new AI camera technology can process multiple video streams simultaneously, either stream from its sensors or outside cameras, enabling better tracking of objects in complex environments. Their eight-channel AI Box, which converts legacy cameras into AI-enabled devices, is an attractive solution for professionals seeking to upgrade existing systems without the need for complete overhauls. For security teams looking to enhance situational awareness, Hanwha’s AI-based offerings provide advanced, scalable solutions.  Workflow management and hybrid cloud security  Genetec continued the theme of integrated solutions with their Operations Centre module for Security Centre, which consolidates work management into a single platform. Built on lean management principles, this system simplifies workflow for security professionals, promoting real-time collaboration across mobile and web platforms. As the industry shifts from on-premises systems to hybrid cloud solutions, Genetec’s products provide seamless transitions for organisations. Their new SaaS Security Centre also allows for natural language video searches in multiple languages, making it easier for global teams to manage operations across locations.  Simplifying remote surveillance  The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency is demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service Eagle Eye Networks showcased their continued international expansion, highlighting a new data centre opening in Saudi Arabia and new hiring initiatives in Australia and Europe. Their “Eagle Eye Anywhere” solar-powered camera system exemplifies the move towards flexible, easy-to-install solutions that can be deployed in remote locations. Integrators benefit from simplified maintenance through remote management, reducing the need for on-site support and ensuring operational continuity. The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency, as demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service, reflects the broader industry’s shift toward managed security services.  Tailored solutions for commercial clients  Everon continues its transition away from its former identity as ADT Commercial. Claiming the status of a competitive commercial integrator, Everon is reinventing itself by offering customised billing and monitoring solutions for a range of industries. Their cloud-based business intelligence platform, which combines video surveillance with data analysis, is aimed at enhancing operational awareness by detecting anomalies such as OSHA violations or retail point-of-sale exceptions. With AI-driven dashboards, clients can customise their security solutions to meet specific needs, reflecting a growing demand for tailored, data-driven security applications.  Innovation through cloud and mobile LenelS2 is part of Honeywell, and they emphasised their investment in cloud and mobile solutions at GSX 2024. Their "Enterprise OnGuard Cloud" platform, launched in June 2024, is a testament to the growing demand for cloud-enabled access control systems. With the addition of NFC-enabled Blue Diamond credentials, LenelS2 is pushing towards smarter, more secure mobile access options. The strategic combination of Lenel’s solutions with Honeywell’s infrastructure offers users enhanced engineering capabilities and global reach. This reflects a broader market trend of integrating mobile devices into physical security protocols.  Bringing AI to everyday security LPR system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying security risks March Networks highlighted their new AI-driven smart search feature, designed to help security teams quickly detect operational anomalies in retail and financial environments. From identifying misplaced cash in quick-service restaurants (QSRs) to detecting "jackpotting" attacks on ATMs, their solution highlights the increasing importance of AI in enhancing both security and operational efficiency. Their Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying and responding to security risks in real-time, emphasising the practicality of AI in daily security operations.  Driving sustainability in security  Securitas showcased its commitment to sustainability, a growing concern for businesses across all industries. By providing CO2 data for clients and promoting digital tools like mobile credentials, Securitas is leading the charge in creating greener, more sustainable security solutions. Their focus on remote services and occupancy insights offers companies a way to reduce their environmental impact while enhancing security operations. The company’s alignment with science-based targets and circular economy practices signifies the increasing role sustainability will play in the security sector.  Future lies in integration  The GSX 2024 trade show revealed that the future of security lies in intelligent integration, AI-driven analytics, and cloud-based management systems. The innovations presented will help security professionals streamline their operations, enhance situational awareness, and future-proof their systems. As these technologies continue to evolve, professionals must stay informed about the latest advancements to maintain a competitive edge in the security marketplace. GSX was a great place to start. At the end of the day at GSX, it wasn’t just the robot dog that was opening doors …. to the future of security systems. {##Poll1727925373 - Of the important factors highlighted at GSX 2024, which do you consider most when adopting new security solutions?##}

How are wearable technologies impacting the security market?
How are wearable technologies impacting the security market?

The most common wearable device deployed by security professionals is the body-worn camera. Traditionally used by law enforcement professionals, these devices are finding more and more uses in the corporate security world, and even impacting issues such as customer service. However, the term “wearables” also encompasses a range of other devices, including many worn by consumers. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How are wearable technologies impacting the security market?

What’s new with biometrics?
What’s new with biometrics?

Technological leaps in the last several decades have revolutionised biometrics. The technologies are constantly evolving, spanning facial recognition to iris scanning to fingerprints, to provide new levels of security and convenience. Biometrics are everywhere, from smartphones to border control, constantly evolving to meet the needs of our increasingly digital world. They are also more accurate and easier to use than ever. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new with biometrics?

Which standards have had the greatest positive impact on physical security?
Which standards have had the greatest positive impact on physical security?

In the complex world of physical security systems, standards can enable disparate systems to be combined to function together as a cohesive whole. Standards help to ensure that all the “pieces” fit together to create a clear, unified picture. More broadly speaking, standards also play a role in ensuring best practices are deployed in a range of security-related situations. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Which standards have had the greatest positive impact on physical security?

Latest Access control news

Nutanix leads in Gartner MQ for hybrid infrastructure
Nutanix leads in Gartner MQ for hybrid infrastructure

Nutanix, a pioneer in hybrid multicloud computing, announced it has been named as a pioneer in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Distributed Hybrid Infrastructure, 2024, which Gartner describes as “offerings that deliver cloud-native attributes, which can be deployed and operated where the customer prefers." "Distributed hybrid infrastructure provides the foundation for the deployment of applications in a distributed manner that retains a cloud or cloud-inspired approach. In doing so, it improves agility and flexibility for the workloads outside of public cloud infrastructure.”  Hybrid multicloud platform Nutanix believes this award is due to the group's vision and assets in the integration of edge Nutanix believes this recognition is due to the company’s vision and investments in the integration of edge, private and public clouds, as well as having a platform that supports both cloud native and traditional applications. All this while providing unified management to help customers simplify their operations and use a hybrid multicloud platform to run applications anywhere and realise business outcomes faster. Hybrid multicloud vision “We are pleased to see this outcome and view it as validation of our hybrid multicloud vision and execution,” said Lee Caswell, SVP, Product and Solutions Marketing at Nutanix. “We are committed to the innovation, execution and support that free customers to build, manage and run secure applications and manage their associated data, including cloud-native Gen AI apps, anywhere.” New Generative AI models Nutanix provides a secure, resilient, and self-healing forum for running apps and managing data Nutanix provides a secure, resilient and self-healing platform for running applications and managing data at scale across edge, public and private cloud environments. The single solution simplifies the management of distributed hybrid infrastructure with consistent data services across a choice of Kubernetes® environments for applications of all kinds, including new Generative AI models. Nutanix also continues focusing on innovation to support customers now and in the future. Recent announcements include: joint solutions with Dell Technologies to give customer choice for traditional and modern workloads; the GPT-in-a-Box 2.0 AI solution, including integrations with NVIDIA and Hugging Face, to accelerate enterprise AI adoption; Nutanix Kubernetes Platform solution to simplify management and operations of Kubernetes clusters; and new functionality in the Nutanix AHV hypervisor to drive enterprise modernisation, and more. Nutanix customers shared "We selected Nutanix to help us modernise our IT infrastructure from our VMware legacy environment which no longer supported our growing needs.” Paul Straton, Infrastructure and Security Manager, Day Lewis. “We explored other solutions following the acquisition of VMware and after evaluating key criteria, decided Nutanix was the best option.” Asad Rehman, IT Director, Regent’s University London. “Transitioning to Nutanix from VMware simplifies our operations with a unified hybrid multicloud platform.” Jeff Mack, Manager, Network/Server Administration, Titan America. "The migration to Nutanix was one of the fastest and smoothest transitions we’ve ever experienced.” Andrew Phan, CIO, Treasure Island Hotel and Casino.

RGB Spectrum IPX Flyaway Kit: Real-time video solution
RGB Spectrum IPX Flyaway Kit: Real-time video solution

RGB Spectrum®, a pioneering designer and manufacturer of real-time video solutions for defence and public safety, announces the release of the IPX Flyaway Kit™.   A complete, miniaturised mobile control room, it provides a comprehensive suite of display and communication capabilities in a rugged, deployable enclosure. LAN/WAN connectivity The IPX Flyaway Kit is designed for command-and-control applications, combining real-time, low latency video processing, multi-signal encoding/decoding, built-in plus external display, and secure wireless connectivity.  At its core is the IPX video processor, which integrates internal and external computer and camera resources, and remote video sources via LAN/WAN connectivity. IPX Flyaway Kit The IPX Flyaway Kit includes RGB Spectrum’s Zio® Video-over-IP platform, offering local display for situational awareness and an advanced network for transmitting a common operating picture to remote monitors, video walls, and even mobile devices. Video Signal Aggregation: Multiview up to eight video signals simultaneously, from internal computer resources and network H.264/.265 decodes Multi-Domain Network Management: Manages RAN, SAT, IoT devices, and sensors. Gateway Services: Facilitates connections between private wireless networks and bonded public/private network uplinks. Advanced Connectivity: Includes bonded, multi-SIM card, wireless backhaul for improved network resiliency, enhanced coverage, and increased bandwidth. Plug and play integration: Accommodates external PCs, systems, displays, and sensors via HDMI, DisplayPort, and Ethernet ports. Included hardware includes eight internal antennas, a rugged MIL-SPEC computer, an Ethernet switch, and a built-in 19” sunlight readable monitor. Demanding environments The versatile IPX Flyaway Kit is a deployable command-and-control system, ruggedised for demanding environments: In public safety scenarios, it is well-suited for field ops centres, disaster response teams, off-site events, and mobile command vehicles. In defense applications, it can serve as a tactical command centre or a ground control station for unmanned aerial systems (UAS), deployed in its rugged, transportable enclosure or outfitted in a command vehicle. Its internal computer resources can accommodate additional capabilities and enhancements, including secure network communications applications. The IPX Flyaway Kit’s miniature size, comprehensive features, and ruggedness make it an ideal solution for mission-critical applications. 24/7.

Bosch 3100i Cameras: Intelligent video security solutions
Bosch 3100i Cameras: Intelligent video security solutions

Bosch Building Technologies is following the path towards pre-empting potential safety threats and creating spaces free from security incidents. It is committed to offering video security solutions designed to provide predictive-ready convenience, enabling data-driven decisions that extend beyond security to enhance business efficiency and performance. The 3100i series of entry-level fixed dome and bullet form factors are the latest additions to the Bosch IP camera portfolio. The cameras feature edge-based, application-specific AI, allowing for real-time analysis and immediate response to potential security threats. Cybersecurity certifications The 3100i cameras hold UL 2900-2-3 Level 2 and IEC 2443-4-1 cybersecurity certifications They are well-suited for small to midsize projects and particularly effective for everyday surveillance. The cameras are designed for end-to-end security and cyber resilience with 10 built-in security measures featuring a Secure Element with Trusted Platform Module (TPM) functionality that securely stores certificates and keys for authentication and encryption.  The 3100i cameras, along with all Bosch cameras, hold UL 2900-2-3 Level 2 and IEC 2443-4-1 cybersecurity certifications. These certifications are a rarity in the industry, demonstrating Bosch’s dedication to maintaining the highest level of data security and protection against cyber threats. Data-driven decisions The entire 3100i family pairs the proven image quality of Bosch with Intelligent Video Analytics Pro (IVA Pro) Buildings as a built-in standard, transforming buildings and other spaces into intelligent, efficient, safe environments. Depending on customer requirements, the 3100i cameras can reliably provide insights into available parking spaces or ensure precise people counting, especially in lively gathering areas where certain health and safety regulations need to be upheld. Known false triggers, like rain, snow, blowing leaves, or lighting changes, are ignored thanks to deep learning-based video analytics algorithms. Build quality matters The cameras can be used stand-alone or with others to support consultants and system integrators Resilient and robust to meet everyday video surveillance needs, the range includes the Flexidome micro 3100i, Flexidome 3100i IR, and Dinion 3100i IR cameras in indoor and environmental (outdoor) models from 2 or 5MP, IR, and non-IR models with up to 30 fps and a High Dynamic Range of 120 dB.  The cameras can be used stand-alone or with others to support consultants and system integrators working on large security projects, such as airports or government facilities, offering more choices and greater flexibility. The 3100i range can enhance the security of indoor buildings and their surroundings, including lobbies, meeting rooms, parking lots, loading docks, and discreet surveillance areas such as hallways, staircases, and elevators. A closer look at the 3100i camera range Discreet and compact at 110 mm x 66 mm (4.3 in x 2.6 in), the Flexidome micro 3100i camera monitors building surroundings and detects objects or people entering a pre-defined zone or loitering in the premise’s vicinity. The telephoto version is ideal for situations requiring accuracy and details, such as hallways and entrances. The Flexidome 3100i IR offers a non-intrusive design and features integrated IR illumination with a coverage of up to 30 m (98 ft) for locations with zero lighting. Like the 3100i micro, this camera is ideal for discreetly securing buildings inside and out. The Dinion 3100i IR is a bullet camera ideal for applications that require a compact yet visible deterrent for potential vandals while instilling a sense of safety for attendees, visitors, and workers, especially at schools, university campuses, airports, and government buildings. All environmental versions of the 3100i cameras are dust-proof and protected from water ingress with an IP66 rating and impact-resistant with an IK10 rating. For predictive-ready, secure, robust, and resilient solutions, Bosch aims to create a world uninterrupted by safety and security concerns with data-driven solutions.

Trailblazer Sales Academy by BDR for territory managers
Trailblazer Sales Academy by BDR for territory managers

Business Development Resources (BDR), the training and business coaching authority for home services industry professionals, announces the return of its Trailblazer Sales Academy, an ongoing sales development program specifically for territory managers and distribution sales teams. Trailblazer Sales Academy helps participants develop sales skills, leadership agility, and a strategic vision for territory growth through four live virtual workshops with additional tools and resources for continuing learning. The program is led by BDR trainers Candy Cunningham and Mike Cunningham and is based on their combined four-plus decades of experience as top-performing territory managers. Trailblazer Sales Academy “We’re preparing territory managers and distribution sales teams to blaze their own trails and make their dream territories a reality,” said Matt MacArthur, Senior Vice President of Training and Marketing for BDR. “Trailblazer Sales Academy equips members with all the tools they need to build and implement the strategies and processes that will help them reach their goals by taking ownership of their sales results.” Sessions for the academy Trailblazer Sales Academy kicks off in January 2025 and runs through May. Each four-hour training session teaches participants the best practices for top-performing territory managers. Sessions for the academy include: Drive Sales and Help Dealers Win in Q1 (Jan. 7): Discover how to drive first-quarter results and help the dealers check pricing and costs to ensure they are well-positioned for the year. Build the Strategic Sales Call Process (Feb. 11): Learn how to build a checklist to prepare for a sales call and develop a strategic sales process to follow before, during, and afterward. Find the Right Dealer Through Targeted Prospecting (April 3): Learn the knowledge and skills to effectively identify and engage with high-potential prospects to maximise results. Help Dealers Install More Jobs Through Labour Leverage (May 8): Discover proven methods for helping dealers install more jobs through leveraging labour and optimising their workforce effectively. The academy also includes self-paced courses to help participants continue to develop their skills in between the live sessions, along with targeted podcast episodes to prepare academy members for their next workshop.

Access control applications

VIVOTEK Cloud Detection with CMS: Innovative solutions
VIVOTEK Cloud Detection with CMS: Innovative solutions

VIVOTEK successfully partnered with CMS, a pioneering provider of solar radiation measuring and analysis solutions, to implement an innovative Cloud Detection and All Sky Measurement system. The project aimed at delivering accurate and reliable data for applications such as weather and cloud observations, atmospheric and climate research, solar irradiance monitoring, and irradiance nowcasting for photovoltaic plants. Challenge CMS faced the challenge of developing a robust Cloud Detection and All Sky Measurement system with wide temperature and weather range and capabilities for varied harsh environmental conditions. It has to include a high-quality camera, but also a variety of internal and external environment sensors and actors. Solution Focusing on giving precise data for applications ranging from remote sensing to atmospheric study The project, focusing on delivering precise data for applications ranging from remote sensing to atmospheric research, encountered a significant hurdle in the form of the camera's mounting position–facing upward toward the sky. This orientation exposed the system to direct sunlight, snow and ice, demanding unparalleled reliability. The VIVOTEK 360 Fisheye camera, FE9382-EHV-v2, was chosen for its high-quality imaging, reliability, and durability, particularly in extreme conditions. The system All Sky Imager, featuring this VIVOTEK 360 Fisheye camera, emerged as a pivotal component in mitigating the impact of environmental extremes. Automatic Full Sky Imaging: ASI-16 provided a 360° field of sky view, automated and scheduled capturing of high-resolution images, transmission of data and images to one or two SFTP server(s), backup of data to internal memory in case of server/network problems, and video life streams.  Environmental Monitoring: Temperature, humidity, and solar irradiance data were captured by high-precision external sensors and are stored in datalogger-like files as well as within the jpg images. Rugged Design: Double shielding, forced ventilation, strong air heating, and a coated quartz glass dome ensured reliable operation in harsh environments. Heating is controlled by external temperature and dew point. Extended Temperature Range: Successfully tested under an extended temperature range of −40°C to +70 °C, with a tolerance of ±3°C. Amongst others, the system is installed on two icebreaker research vessels, one operated by Australia in Antarctic, and one operated by Canada in the Arctic.  VADP Integration for Bespoke UI: CMS utilised VIVOTEK Application Development Platform (VADP) to craft a bespoke user interface–a seamless, user-friendly design offering a clean and intuitive experience. References: Solution is embraced by Institutes, Universities, Scientific Research, and the Energy Sector, including maritime and Icebreaker Deployment. Conclusion The collaborative efforts between CMS Ing. Dr. Schreder GmbH and VIVOTEK have resulted in an innovative Cloud Detection and All Sky Measurement system that effectively addresses the challenges of environmental extremes. This enhanced solution not only ensures reliability in demanding conditions but also contributes significantly to scientific research and environmental monitoring. Gerhard Papst, Head of Development at CMS, is highly impressed and deeply satisfied with the performance of VIVOTEK's cameras. The scale of this collaborative project now spans over 300 sites and continues to expand.

Matrix VoIP solutions for emergency call management
Matrix VoIP solutions for emergency call management

Client, a prominent regional R&D institution under MeitY, plays a crucial role in advancing India's technological landscape. With a focus on IT, electronics, and related sectors, the organisation leads in cutting-edge research, driving innovation to meet global trends and market needs. As a key player in high-end R&D, they have been pivotal in propelling India’s IT revolution, consistently expanding their expertise in emerging technologies. They utilise their knowledge and creativity to develop IT solutions across various industries, working closely with MeitY, funding agencies, partners, and key stakeholders. Requirements The project involved managing a defined volume of emergency calls per hour by directing those made to 112 to agents handling state-specific emergency services. Matrix's role was to deliver a VoIP PRI gateway solution that provided VoIP capabilities to a third-party server. Crucially, these functionalities needed to be implemented across various locations. The client’s needs can be outlined as follows: Manage a minimum of 50,000 calls: The system must be equipped to handle at least 50,000 emergency calls every hour. Direct calls to state-specific agents: When the global emergency number 112 is dialled, calls should be directed to agents overseeing emergency services for the respective states. Integrate with third-party systems: The agents will work on a third-party server, which must be seamlessly connected to the Matrix GENX system via SIP trunking. Solution In collaboration with Consulttech, Matrix developed a solution that significantly enhanced the organisation's operations by optimising call routeing. The core of the solution involved offering a VoIP PRI gateway, enabling seamless PRI to VoIP conversion. The essential features of this solution are as follows: Multi-location setup: The system covers various locations, each outfitted with a Matrix GENX system that connects to the ISP's PRI lines. PRI to VoIP conversion: At every site, Matrix GENX converts incoming calls from PRI lines into VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). Emergency call routeing: When a user dials 112, the call is routed through the ISP’s PRI lines to the Matrix Gateways, where the media is converted from PRI to VoIP and passed to the Automatic Call Distributor (ACD) server. Centralised ACD server: All VoIP calls are funneled into a central ACD server for efficient distribution. Agent call distribution: The ACD server directs the incoming calls to available agents who are ready to respond. Scalable solution: Up to 28 locations can be connected to the central ACD server, allowing the system to handle a high volume of calls simultaneously. Results The solution enabled the organisation to connect various locations into one unified communication system through the use of a VoIP PRI gateway. This improved the system's ability to manage thousands of calls per hour while significantly reducing call drops. The specifics of the solution are as follows: Multi-site implementation: The project was deployed across multiple locations in cities throughout Kerala, establishing a seamless communication network. Increased call handling capacity: Each site is capable of managing between 26,000 to 30,000 calls per hour. Significant decrease in call drops: The system efficiently handled large call volumes, resulting in almost no dropped calls. Matrix’s VoIP PRI gateway allowed the organisation to integrate multiple locations across the state into a unified communication system. With the ability to manage high call volumes, the solution significantly minimised call drops.

AI surveillance at AVS: Cutting false alarms
AI surveillance at AVS: Cutting false alarms

American Veterans Security (AVS), a local pioneer providing comprehensive security solutions with over 30 years of experience, serves various clients, including commercial, residential, industrial, construction sites, and automotive sectors. AVS specialises in security monitoring and live interactive video services. AVS’s mission is to offer its clients reliable, scalable, and cost-effective security solutions while maintaining a high standard of service to meet the unique needs of its clients. To further enhance its security offerings and improve operational efficiency, AVS turned to VIVOTEK’s VORTEX Cloud Surveillance Platform. This AI-powered solution has not only streamlined their security processes but also significantly reduced false alarms and improved monitoring capabilities. Challenges As AVS expanded its client base within the automotive, managing security for large sites like MINI of Portland’s dealership became increasingly complex. Continuous monitoring was essential, especially after business hours when high-value inventory was most vulnerable to theft or damage. Traditional surveillance systems limited AVS's operations and exposed MINI Cooper to risks. Moreover, not all AI-driven systems fully met their needs, pioneering to four key issues over the years:  Many False Alerts: Large parking lots triggered hundreds of false alerts in a single night, causing inefficiencies and increased event claim costs. Dispersed Monitoring: Managing separate customer locations was inefficient and time-consuming, underscoring the need for centralised monitoring. Additionally, AVS needed the flexibility to set specific authorisation permissions for each customer’s site. Installation Costs: The labour-intensive installation process for each dealership was cumbersome and costly, further burdening AVS’s resources. Manual Updates: AVS’s previous systems required frequent manual checks and updates, increasing operational overhead and risking security gaps. AVS needed a comprehensive AI cloud video surveillance solution to streamline operations, reduce the manual monitoring time, and provide high-quality security services without compromise-benefitting both AVS and their client, MINI Cooper. Solution: Why choose VORTEX After evaluating various security platforms, AVS chose VIVOTEK’s VORTEX Cloud Surveillance for its robust AI features and scalable cloud-based architecture. John Stevens, CEO of AVS, highlighted several key factors that influenced their decision: Reduced False Alarms by 80-90%: With advanced AI capabilities, VORTEX dramatically reduced false alarms by filtering out irrelevant events such as moving objects like shadows. Make AVS focus only on genuine security threats, reduce costs related to events claims, and improve operational efficiency. Centralized Monitoring Anytime, Anywhere: VORTEX’s cloud-based system allowed AVS to remotely monitor multiple dealership locations, reducing the need for on-site staff while offering real-time alerts by mobile for perimeter breaches and suspicious activities. Cost-effective and Scalable: VORTEX seamlessly integrated with the existing camera infrastructure at AVS’s client sites, minimising disruptions during deployment. VORTEX’s user-friendly interface made it easy for AVS’s team to manage security systems without extensive training. Efficient Installation and Update: Automatic firmware updates ensured AVS’s surveillance systems were always running on the latest technology, further minimising downtime and manual setup. AVS no longer needed to dispatch IT teams frequently for each site, saving the on-site update and troubleshooting costs by $2,000 per time. Results and customer feedback AVS and MINI of Portland has seen significant improvements in operational efficiency  Since implementing the VORTEX Cloud Surveillance Platform, AVS and MINI of Portland has seen significant improvements in operational efficiency and client satisfaction. John Stevens, the CEO of AVS emphasised how VORTEX has enhanced AVS’s ability to offer cutting-edge security solutions, stating: “VORTEX has transformed our operations, improved our client service process, reduced security costs, and given us full control from a single platform. It's our go-to solution. It's not just a product. It's a partnership that we trust and rely on.” VORTEX Cloud Surveillance Roger Botton, General Manager at MINI of Portland, also shared his experience: “VORTEX Cloud Surveillance allows us to quickly review situations in minutes and receive real-time alert notifications by APP after hours. We also use the system to monitor service quality and provide coaching to improve processes. It has made us feel safer, more efficient, and responsive." "As AVS continues to expand, they remain committed to utilising VORTEX to deliver the best-in-class security services, solidifying their position as a trusted security provider in the region."

Motorola M500 boosts Lancashire police's operations
Motorola M500 boosts Lancashire police's operations

Motorola Solutions announced that Lancashire Police will deploy the M500 in-car video solution across its entire fleet of vehicles. The new video solution observes the vehicle’s environment from multiple viewpoints to provide officers with real-time awareness of their surroundings, whilst capturing video evidence that can provide accurate incident documentation to aid investigations. Motorola Solutions M500 "Police officers face unpredictable challenges and fast-moving events every day,” said Chris Hardy, chief superintendent for Lancashire Police. “The ability to respond quickly is paramount. The Motorola Solutions M500 can live-stream video back to the control room, enabling our team to build a clear picture of unfolding events by giving us eyes on the scene. It is a highly configurable, easy-to-use system that can automate processes such as triggering video recording when the blue lights are activated, helping officers to focus on the job at hand.” Technological and organisational capabilities Lancashire Police has made some recent investments in new technological and organisational capabilities Lancashire Police has made a number of recent investments in new technological and organisational capabilities. Since its establishment in June 2023, Lancashire Police’s Roads Crime Team and Roads Policing Unit, with support from wider police departments in the county, has been integral to efforts to locate and recover vehicles and assist with road traffic collisions. The deployment of the M500 in-car video solution will provide front-line officers with an additional tool to help fulfil its priority of making the roads safer for the community. Motorola Solutions VideoManager The M500’s interface is designed to be intuitive for officers to operate in demanding situations. Video captured is automatically uploaded to the Motorola Solutions VideoManager for secure, auditable storage that is intelligently organised. Recorded footage is tracked and audited to protect the chain of custody so that the police, public and judicial systems can be confident in the integrity of video evidence. VideoManager’s consolidated incident overview also helps to ensure that incident information, including footage recorded by the M500, as well as Lancashire Police’s body cameras, can be easily viewed from one location. Video security solutions “Video security solutions are a vital tool for police officers as they work to help keep their communities safe,” said Fergus Mayne, U.K. and Ireland country manager, Motorola Solutions. “As part of the Motorola Solutions safety and security ecosystem, the M500 connects with Lancashire Police’s existing mission-critical technologies, providing productivity and agility to the forces operational response to help protect people, property and places." Motorola Solutions’ Pronto application Motorola Solutions has been trusted by Lancashire Police throughout its digital transformation, supporting the force’s evidence capture, data storage and workflow efficiency.  The M500 will complement the force’s existing technology infrastructure which includes Motorola Solutions’ Pronto Digital Policing application, TETRA radios and VB400 body cameras.