Mobile Access Trends

What is the role of ethical hacking in physical security?
What is the role of ethical hacking in physical security?

In the world of cybersecurity, ethical hacking proactively identifies security vulnerabilities before malicious actors (i.e., unethical hackers) can exploit them. By simulating real-world attacks, organisations can strengthen defences, protect sensitive data, and maintain public trust. In the physical security world, ethical hacking can transform cybersecurity of security systems from a reactive struggle into a strategic safeguard. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the role of ethical hacking as it relates to physical security?

What is the next generation of physical security solutions?
What is the next generation of physical security solutions?

Next-generation (Next-Gen) technologies are products, services, or infrastructures that represent a significant leap forward rather than a small, incremental update. In the physical security industry, NextGen products are those that enable disruptive change, breakthrough performance, and a fundamental change that renders previous products obsolete. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the next generation of physical security solutions, and how will they change the industry?

How are security systems transitioning from reactive to proactive?
How are security systems transitioning from reactive to proactive?

Emphasising proactive rather than reactive security shifts the focus from dealing with crises and damage control to prevention. Advantages of a proactive approach include cost efficiency, better business continuity, and fewer crises that draw attention away from strategic improvements. Staying ahead of threats is a core mission of the security department, and technology has evolved to enable security professionals to deliver on that mission better than ever. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How are security systems transitioning from reactive to proactive, and what is the benefit?

HID highlights digital transformation, futureproofing among access trends
HID highlights digital transformation, futureproofing among access trends

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 behavioural insights. Access data itself is becoming an asset for sustainability, space optimisation, 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 organisations, 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 organisations digitise 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 organisations to switch software providers or expand functionality without replacing core door hardware. Architectural openness is key to system lifecycles and maximising 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 organisations 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 organisations 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 organisations 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 organisations 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 recognised 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 organisations 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 optimisation 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 monetisation, and monetisation funds further improvements. Achieving technology impact in the real world One standout project is One Bangkok – a $3.9 billion mixed used development in Thailand – which demonstrates the scale of what can be achieved when access control data is used for optimisation, particularly when it comes to monitoring facilities usage and occupier behaviours. 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 recognised sustainability certifications often command rental premiums of around 6%, and three‑quarters of security decision‑makers now consider environmental impact in their procurement assessments.

Latest Access control news

SimonsVoss FORTLOX: Innovative mechatronic locking
SimonsVoss FORTLOX: Innovative mechatronic locking

Digital locking specialist SimonsVoss has launched the FORTLOX Series, a new mechatronic locking system designed to help organisations strengthen security across technical infrastructure sites with remote assets and distributed estates. At the centre of the system is the FORTLOX Cylinder, a thumb-turn-free and battery-free digital cylinder powered directly by the multifunctional FORTLOX Key. Together, the system delivers a freely programmable digital access solution that can be managed centrally or locally via software and mobile app. Mechanical key management The FORTLOX Key combines multiple functions within a single device, operating as a programmable key, active transponder, BLE communication interface and optional RFID credential. Designed for indoor and outside environments where operational resilience, flexibility and accountability are critical, the FORTLOX system offers a modern alternative to traditional mechanical locking systems, making access simple and secure across complex technical sites. The launch comes as organisations face increasing pressure to strengthen physical security, manage changing access permissions and reduce the operational burden associated with mechanical key management. Simplifying access management According to SimonsVoss, the system is particularly suited to infrastructure and remote locations where secure, controlled access is required for engineers, contractors and maintenance teams across multiple sites. Applications for the FORTLOX Series include data centres, transformer substations, server cabinets, cable distribution cabinets, EV charging infrastructure and remote or infrequently accessed technical facilities where secure and traceable access is essential. By enabling organisations to issue, update and revoke access permissions remotely, the FORTLOX system is designed to help reduce unnecessary site visits, improve auditability and simplify access management across distributed estates Reducing maintenance requirements Bruce Donald, UK and Ireland Country Manager at SimonsVoss, said: “Many organisations responsible for critical infrastructure and distributed estates are still relying on traditional mechanical locking systems that can be difficult to manage at scale.” “FORTLOX has been developed to provide a more flexible and resilient approach to access control, helping organisations improve security, simplify access management and reduce maintenance requirements without major disruption to existing infrastructure.” Managing multiple locations “The ability to centrally manage permissions, quickly issue temporary access rights and retrofit existing cylinders makes the system particularly valuable for facilities and infrastructure operators managing multiple locations.” The FORTLOX Series has been developed as an extension of SimonsVoss System 3060 and can be integrated with wider SimonsVoss locking components including Digital Cylinder AX, SmartHandle AX Advanced and SmartRelay 3.

iDenfy launches Arabic ID verification for MENA market
iDenfy launches Arabic ID verification for MENA market

iDenfy, the identity verification and fraud prevention company, has launched complete Arabic language support for its identity verification software. Now users that goes through the KYC process can receive on-screen instructions, guidance prompts, and step-by-step suggestions entirely in Arabic. The goal, according to the company, is straightforward: lower drop-off rates and execute more completed verifications. Confusing user experience When a verification screen fails to communicate clearly, users do not look for workarounds. They abandon the process. This challenge brings additional weight across the Middle East and North Africa, where over 420 million people speak Arabic as their primary language and where demand for digital financial services, fintech, and crypto platforms has expanded at a rate that places the region among the fastest-growing in the world. Despite the growth, many onboarding systems continue to use English as their primary language. Research found that close to 35% percent of consumers across the MENA region have discontinued and switched to another competitor due to a poor or confusing user experience, which can also be a language barrier. Verification flows that cannot communicate clearly in Arabic are not a secondary concern for operators that aim to target this market. They are a direct driver of the drop-off problem. Entire verification journey iDenfy built the Arabic support into the verification flow itself. Nothing changes on the compliance or data side. What changes is everything the user sees. Prompts instructing someone to hold their ID at a specific angle, warnings about poor lighting, guidance on which document to submit next, all of it now displays in Arabic. The iDenfy says the impact is felt most at friction points: the moments where a user hesitates, rereads a line twice, or closes the app. “Most platforms will localise a menu or translate a button label. That’s not what we did here. We went through the entire verification journey, every prompt, every instruction, every warning message to make sure it reads naturally in Arabic, not like something run through a translation tool,” said Adomas Vitkauskas, Chief Product Officer at iDenfy. Top operational priorities According to iDenfy, drop-off rate reduction is one of the top operational priorities for clients operating in multilingual markets. A user who exits mid-verification is a lost conversion. For banks, neobanks, and crypto exchanges with significant Arabic-speaking user bases, native language support functions as a conversion lever that simplifies onboarding forms or reduces the number of obstacles in the verification journey. The iDenfy frames this solution not as a localisation feature but as a product performance improvement. Product performance improvement Companies that use iDenfy’s software can offer Arabic as a language option from the very first interaction step on their verification flow. The user selects their preferred language, or it is detected automatically, and every touchpoint from there is in Arabic. No additional setup required. The team at iDenfy notes that this applies to returning users as well. Someone who completes the re-verification process steps now gets the same experience in their chosen language. Identity verification software It is worth mentioning that Arabic is the first non-European language that the Regtech provider has decided to add to its platform this year, and Hebrew is next on the roadmap. The company has not announced a release date for the next integration plans yet, but it is predicted to be released soon. “Completion rates are the number that matters most for the companies that use our software. If someone can’t finish a verification because the instructions weren’t clear in their language, that’s a fixable problem. Arabic was the obvious first step given the size of that market. Hebrew follows. There’s more after that,” said Domantas Ciulde, CEO of iDenfy. iDenfy’s Arabic language support is available now across its identity verification software.

BradyPrinter i4311: Portable industrial label printing
BradyPrinter i4311: Portable industrial label printing

Automated identification and data capture specialist Brady Corporation launches a new type of hybrid label printer that offers industrial label printing performance in a cordless, portable design. Brady’s new BradyPrinter i4311 is designed to bridge the gap between stationary benchtop label printer power and mobile flexibility. A well-known limitation for most mobile label printers is the maximum width of the label. Brady’s i4311 marks the new maximum label width at 101.60 mm for connected label printing systems that retain true portability. GHS-compliant chemical labels The larger print width brings a lot more applications into the mobile label printing range, including perforated work-in-progress tags, common size rating plates and larger cable tags, wraps, sleeves, asset labels, component labels and GHS-compliant chemical labels. No need to look for power outlets with the i4311. The printer is powered by a battery that can handle 5000 large labels on a single charge. Swapping batteries has been made easy and they can be charged in 3.5 hours. The new BradyPrinter i4311 can print labels from phones, tablets and laptops, and even from central company systems using Brady’s software development kit or ZPL support. In addition to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the i4311 also features ethernet and USB-C connections. Long-standing customers The printer’s on-board 7’’ (17.78 cm) touch screen offers both on-device support as well as the capability to print labels directly from the printer. Users can store on average different 85 000 label templates in the printer that can be completed with an on-board ‘fill in’ option, fully responsive to touch. Brady also revealed i4311 printer features that were developed with close involvement from the company’s long-standing customers. As a result, the printer’s footprint was limited to 23 x 23 x 33 cm and 5.9 kg and the device’s easy-to-grip handle was optimised. A battery-saver was also added for when the printer is not in use and battery-swapping was made even easier. Industrial printing capabilities Right in the middle of Brady’s mobile label printer and industrial benchtop label printer line ups now sits the BradyPrinter i4311: a portable printer with the company’s benchtop industrial printing capabilities. Compatible with more than 1300 Brady label parts, the i4311 can print on a majority of Brady’s reliable, laboratory-tested label materials. Just like other Brady printers the i4311 includes LabelSense technology to automatically set label material burn, size and pre-print settings as soon as a label roll is loaded. The company’s newest label printer also works with a host of free Brady Express Labels mobile apps. These enable users to select text in an image file for example, and import it for printing on a label. Or to read barcodes with a phone and send them to the printer. With a commanding voice, labels can even be printed completely hands-free, using BradyVoice, a smartphone microphone and the BradyPrinter i4311.

Codelocks joins CES for enhanced access control solutions
Codelocks joins CES for enhanced access control solutions

Global designer and manufacturer of coded locks, Codelocks International Ltd, has announces a new partnership with CES Security Solutions Ltd, a specialist in patented key systems. The collaboration makes selected Codelocks products compatible with CES Security’s patented key cylinders, combining two established access control technologies within a single, integrated solution. Bringing them together in this first line of products gives users the convenience and flexibility of coded access, along with the security and reliability of patented master keys. Access control technologies Colin Campbell, CEO at Codelocks International Ltd, said: “We’ve worked with CES on an ad hoc basis to give the customers who ask for it the ability to include their digital locks as part of their master key system. In addition, we receive regular enquiries – for a key that cannot be easily copied, and we can integrate these with our digital locks to provide a fully combined access control solution.” The CES Security key system is patented until 2038, meaning keys cannot be duplicated without authorisation. Each override key is individually registered with CES Security and is fully traceable, providing complete auditability of who was issued a key and when – a requirement increasingly expected in regulated environments such as healthcare, education, and government facilities, and in commercial offices. Providing complete auditability Three Codelocks products are the first to launch with this new functionality: the mechanical CL500 Key and CL600 locks, and the electronic CL5000. In addition to their existing features, these locks can now be configured into a CES Security master key system. Master key systems allow a single key to operate multiple locks while restricting individual keys to designated doors. This creates a tiered access structure that simplifies key management across large or multi-occupancy sites. Unlike other master systems, the CES Security Solutions provides a patented cylinder adapted to specifically operate Codelocks digital locks. Managing complex environments CES Security’s patented cylinders are also drop in, retrofit friendly, meaning existing Codelocks customers can easily upgrade their CL500 Key, CL600, and CL5000 locks. This gives existing customers the chance to create a master lock system or integrate their coded locks into their existing hierarchy. Mario Del-Signore, Managing Director at CES Security said: “This partnership will help larger users – whether in co-working offices, education or healthcare – manage their complex environments with reduced numbers of keys, greater confidence and security, and the simplicity of coded access.” Key cylinder range “We’re especially excited about the added value for locksmiths and installers, who can now add a patented master key system to an existing Codelocks installation and offer customers a more sophisticated solution as a result.” “The partnership itself grew naturally out of working together on several sizeable projects that were, in effect, an incredibly successful proof of concept. Dan Rising, our National Sales Manager, was instrumental in turning that into something formal, and I think what we can now offer reflects the strength of the CES-Codelocks relationship.” The Codelocks and CES Security Solutions Ltd registered key cylinder range is available now. They carry CE marking across the latch and lock variants and have been tested in accordance with BS EN 1634-12 for fire door applications when fitted with a Codelocks FireKit.

Access control applications

Genetec Security enhances 40 Leadenhall experience
Genetec Security enhances 40 Leadenhall experience

Genetec Inc., the pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces 40 Leadenhall has deployed Genetec™ Security Center and Genetec Mission Control™ to create a seamless modern experience for visitors and tenants. Located in the capital’s insurance district, 40 Leadenhall is one of the biggest City of London developments ever to receive planning permission. It spans over 900,000 square feet of commercial office, amenities, and retail space, serving up to 10,000 occupants. Original performance specification A unified security platform formed part of the original performance specification, with Genetec Security Center ultimately selected to give 40 Leadenhall the flexibility to integrate best of breed hardware and software, support informed decision making, and tailor the interface to a wide range of user needs and access privileges. “Genetec is proud to be safeguarding a growing portfolio of flagship buildings across the City of London - including some of its newest and largest developments,” said Viet Tang, Account Executive at Genetec Inc. “40 Leadenhall is a standout example of how forward thinking property owners are embracing unified, intelligent security to deliver safer, more efficient and more intuitive environments.” Standardising incident response The smart building solution incorporates over 200 cameras, more than 250 doors, and 2,600 data points, all managed through Genetec Security Center and hosted on Genetec Streamvault™ servers and archives. Genetec Mission Control™ further enhances operations by standardising incident response with advanced automation. By integrating with other building systems, it can automatically trigger workflows for events such as power loss, water leaks, or high winds thus enabling teams to respond proactively with timely notifications and targeted actions that help ensure occupant safety. Access control and visitor experience technologies from partners including HID Global, Mercury Communications, and STid help enable seamless navigation throughout the facility. Occupiers can use mobile wallet credentials for frictionless entry, while visitors receive QR code passes that remove the need for temporary plastic cards. Integrated cameras from Axis Communications enhance situational awareness across the site. Truly smart building Genetec workstations located throughout the building provide role based access for operators. Reception staff can enrol visitors, while control-room security teams can run reports, investigate events, and monitor live video on either dedicated workstations or tablets. “The Genetec security system is easy to use and enables us to deliver a world class service to our occupiers and guests, ensuring occupant wellbeing and building security,” says Stewart Maynard, Smart Systems Manager at 40 Leadenhall. “Collaboration between delivery, systems and service partner teams has helped make 40 Leadenhall a truly smart building.” Quickly identify devices By uploading interactive floor plans into Security Center, operators can quickly identify devices, investigate activity, or access live video with a single click, significantly reducing training times. The building’s digital experience is further enhanced through integration with the 40 Leadenhall app, powered by VTS Activate. Occupiers can issue virtual visitor passes, receive arrival notifications, and seamlessly access amenities including wellness spaces, cycle facilities and the Peloton studio. “We believe Genetec provides the ideal platform to support 40 Leadenhall’s future growth and technology goals,” concludes Maynard. “The investment in leading technology, supported by strong partnerships, positions 40 Leadenhall at the forefront of innovation.”

ZeroEyes enhances Sayreville school security
ZeroEyes enhances Sayreville school security

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces that its AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness platform has been deployed by New Jersey’s Sayreville Borough School District to protect students and faculty against gun-related violence. Located in Middlesex County, the district serves approximately 6,500 students and employs approximately 750 staff across 10 buildings, including a high school, middle school, upper elementary school, four K–3 elementary schools, two preschools, and a specialised 18–21 program that operates a publicly accessible store and café for job training. With strong community involvement, the district prioritises proactive safety measures and operates on the principle of staying ahead of evolving security needs. Incident management software ZeroEyes enhances the district’s comprehensive, multilayered security strategy and will be integrated with Singlewire’s InformaCast incident management software. This enables real-time gun detection alerts from ZeroEyes to automatically trigger Singlewire’s InformaCast system, which can instantly distribute customised alerts across a wide range of devices, supporting faster, more coordinated emergency responses and ensuring critical information reaches those who need it most. “Our responsibility is to create an environment where students and staff can focus on learning while knowing that safety is taken seriously,” said Dr. Richard Labbe, superintendent of Sayreville Borough School District. “By integrating advanced technology, such as ZeroEyes, into our broader security framework, we are strengthening our ability to identify potential threats early and act quickly, helping us move from awareness to action in a matter of moments.” Secure learning environment ZeroEyes' AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto existing digital security cameras. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), the industry's only U.S.-based, fully in-house operation center, which is staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If these experts determine the threat is valid, they dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — to law enforcement and school security teams as quickly as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. “Sayreville Borough School District’s leadership has demonstrated a strong commitment to creating a safe and secure learning environment,” said Mike Lahiff, co-founder and CEO of ZeroEyes. “We’re proud to support their efforts by turning existing security infrastructure into a source of timely, reliable insight that supports faster, more confident action.”

ZeroEyes AI gun detection: School security revolution
ZeroEyes AI gun detection: School security revolution

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces that Amos P. Godby High School in Tallahassee, Florida, is the first in the nation to deploy a three-part integrated solution called RADAR (Real-time Alert, Detection And Response). This solution combines ZeroEyes’ AI-based gun detection and situational awareness solution with Ark Strategic’s 3D Mapping solution and Campus Guardian Angel drones to provide comprehensive, real-time threat detection, alerting, and response in the case of a gun-related incident. Enhancing situational awareness "ZeroEyes Al gun detection and Ark Strategic’s 3D mapping solution, combined with Campus Guardian Angel, represent the cutting edge of school security in the United States," said Jimmy Williams, Chief of Safety, Security, and Emergency Management for Leon County School District. "When leveraging these tools collectively in Project RADAR, we’re continuing to set a national standard for school security with solution-oriented and mission-ready resources.” Ark Strategic’s 3D mapping solution blends cutting-edge aerial and interior mapping technologies to deliver unparalleled operational intelligence for its customers. When integrating the exterior and interior intelligence with ZeroEyes AI threat detection software, the solution empowers first responders to quickly identify critical assets, enhance situational awareness, and respond to threats with greater speed and precision. Situational awareness software layers “At Ark Strategic, our mission is to turn the entire campus into actionable intelligence,” said Chris Yellina, Founder & Chief Product Officer at Ark Strategic. “With inside-and-out coverage, responders have a clearer picture of the environment before they ever make entry.” ZeroEyes' AI threat detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto existing digital security cameras. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), the industry's only U.S.-based, fully in-house operation center, which is staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If these experts determine the threat is valid, they dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — to law enforcement and local security teams as quickly as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. Creating a safer environment When a detection occurs at a location mapped in 3D, each camera alert is automatically tied to its exact position on the map, enabling responders to navigate instantly to the area of concern. The system is entirely cloud-based, requiring no installation for local law enforcement. Annotated maps display camera placement, fields of view, and potential blind spots, while operational layers and interactive measurements empower security teams to assess situations and make informed decisions quickly. In tandem, or if a panic button is pressed, Campus Guardian Angel deploys non-lethal drones within seconds, tracking the assailant and navigating obstacles to provide support and situational awareness. While in operation, the drones actively distract, delay, and disrupt the perpetrator, buying precious time and creating a safer environment for students and staff. Truly comprehensive security solution “Amos P. Godby High School’s deployment of RADAR marks a historic step forward in school safety,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and cofounder of ZeroEyes. “This integrated and innovative approach further demonstrates how utilising a multilayered technology solution can protect students and staff more effectively, setting a new standard for safety nationwide.” "We are thrilled to partner with the innovative team at ZeroEyes in launching Florida’s first-in-the-nation pilot program, which includes Godby High School, bringing together the best in AI-powered gun detection and elite human-piloted drone response capabilities to create a truly comprehensive security solution that can save lives,” said Justin Marston, CEO and co-founder of Campus Guardian Angel. Enhancing campus safety “Our innovative Active Shooter Suppression System is uniquely designed to deliver non-lethal effects that distract, delay, and disrupt a threat within seconds, buying critical time for law enforcement to protect students and staff. We are proud to be working side-by-side with companies like ZeroEyes to advance cutting-edge technology solutions to enhance campus safety in Florida and across the nation.” ZeroEyes, Ark Strategic, Campus Guardian Angel, and the district are hosting a summit June 17 and 18 at Godby High School, featuring demonstrations and discussion sessions surrounding the technologies, including reflections from school leaders on the district’s successful deployment. The event is open to local schools, law enforcement, and the media.

SmokeGo, EvacGo: Life safety in high‑rise residentials
SmokeGo, EvacGo: Life safety in high‑rise residentials

John Street, Newham, a high‑rise residential development comprising Blocks A and C, has been equipped with a comprehensive life safety solution from Advanced, incorporating SmokeGo smoke control and EvacGo evacuation alert systems to support a stay‑put fire strategy and enhance resident safety. The project, delivered as part of a wider life safety installation by Simple Life Safety Systems Limited, required a robust and compliant approach to smoke control and evacuation alert across two buildings with different heights and risk profiles. Block A is a 14‑storey, high‑rise residential block, while Block C is a smaller, four‑storey building. Each block was equipped with one SmokeGo panel and one EvacGo panel, providing dedicated control tailored to the specific needs of each structure. High‑rise residential block SmokeGo was specified to deliver active smoke control via the fire system, supporting the management of smoke in common escape routes and critical areas. Designed to comply with EN 54 Parts 2 and 4, as well as BS 7346‑8 and ISO 21927‑9, SmokeGo enables automatic and manual control of smoke control fans and dampers from a single, intuitive interface. Its simple matrix‑based configuration allowed the project team to clearly define smoke compartments and cause‑and‑effect relationships, helping ensure smoke is contained and extracted effectively in the event of a fire. EvacGo was installed as a fully independent BS 8629-compliant evacuation alert system, giving the fire and rescue service a reliable and secure means of alerting residents if evacuation beyond the affected flat is required. Each EvacGo panel is housed within a robust, tamper‑proof enclosure and is designed exclusively for use by the fire and rescue service, helping prevent misuse while ensuring clear, decisive control during an incident. Complex residential project John Newton, Director Life Safety at Simple Group, commented: “John Street was a complex residential project that required careful coordination between smoke control and evacuation alert systems. Using SmokeGo and EvacGo allowed us to deliver a fully compliant solution that aligns with the fire strategy while giving the fire and rescue service the tools they need to manage incidents safely and effectively.” The SmokeGo smoke control system and EvacGo evacuation alert system operate as separate dedicated life safety systems, ensuring smoke movement can be actively controlled while evacuation decisions remain firmly in the hands of the fire and rescue service. This layered approach supports resident safety without undermining the stay‑put strategy that underpins the building’s fire design. Implementing smoke control Shaun Scott, Applications Engineer at Advanced, added: “Projects like John Street highlight the importance of implementing smoke control and evacuation alert systems correctly. SmokeGo makes complex smoke control logic far simpler to configure and manage, while EvacGo provides a clear, compliant evacuation alert solution. Together, they deliver confidence for installers, building managers, and emergency responders alike.” With one SmokeGo panel and one EvacGo panel installed in each block, the John Street development now benefits from a coordinated life safety solution that addresses both smoke management and evacuation alerting in line with current best practice and regulatory guidance. The project demonstrates how Advanced’s specialist systems can be combined to meet the evolving safety requirements of modern residential buildings, delivering compliant, practical solutions that prioritise both resident safety and operational simplicity.