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?

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?

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?

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.

Following the successful completion of the spin-off of Octave Intelligence plc (Octave) from parent-company Hexagon AB on May 22, Octave’s Swedish depository receipts commenced trading on Nasdaq Stockholm on May 25 and Octave’s Class B ordinary shares will commence trading on the Nasdaq Global Select Market in New York today. Building on thirty years of expertise and partnership with the world’s biggest and most complex organisations, including more than 60% of the Global Fortune 500, Octave delivers connected, contextual intelligence solutions for the organisations who can’t afford to fail. Most complex organisations “Organisations responsible for the world’s most critical assets are generating data that creates intelligence everywhere but is connected nowhere,” said Mattias Stenberg, chief executive officer of Octave. “Octave unlocks results by connecting that data and intelligence with context and AI-driven insight across every asset, facility and organisation. Today marks a new day for our customers, employees and partners.” Every day, the world's most complex organisations – power grids, rail networks, manufacturing plants, public safety systems, entire cities – keep critical infrastructure running through Octave’s solutions by connecting expertise, real-world conditions and enterprise-scale insight to improve performance, resilience and incident response where it matters most. Delivering meaningful outcomes By linking data, decisions and outcomes across the design, build, operate and protect phases, Octave creates shared knowledge where every new data source strengthens the system, yielding compounding insight over time. “This new chapter marks a new focus – as an organisation deeply committed to solving our customers’ toughest challenges in a rapidly changing world,” continued Stenberg. “The future of technology is won by the companies who can deliver meaningful outcomes at scale. Octave is positioned to meet this through our unmatched depth of connected, contextual intelligence.” Wholly-owned subsidiary On April 24, 2026, the Annual General Meeting of Hexagon AB (Hexagon) resolved to distribute all shares in its wholly-owned subsidiary Octave Intelligence plc to Hexagon’s shareholders. Shareholders of Hexagon as per the record date of May 22, 2026, have received one class A ordinary share in Octave for every ten Series A shares held in Hexagon, and one class B ordinary share in Octave for every ten Series B shares held in Hexagon. On May 22, the distribution of Octave from Hexagon completed and non-affiliate holders of Series B shares in Hexagon received Octave’s class B ordinary shares by way of Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB (publ) (SEB) issuing Swedish depository receipts (SDRs). Each SDR represents one underlying class B ordinary share in Octave and was deposited into shareholders’ Euroclear Sweden accounts. Holder’s designated account Today, Octave’s class B ordinary shares will commence trading on Nasdaq New York under the ticker symbol “OCTV” with the ISIN code IE0003YHD8K8 and the CUSIP G22845 104. On May 25, Octave SDRs commenced traded on Nasdaq Stockholm under the ticker symbol “OCTV SDB” with the ISIN code SE0028329433. Holders of SDRs may cancel their SDRs to receive the underlying class B ordinary shares. Conversion is effected through the SDR program and the Euroclear Sweden and Depository Trust Company settlement systems and must be initiated by the bank, broker or other nominee through which the applicable SDRs are held. Valid conversion instruction The holder’s bank, broker or other nominee will be responsible for transmitting the relevant instructions to SEB, the SDR depositary. Following receipt of a valid conversion instruction, the relevant SDRs will be cancelled, and the corresponding class B ordinary shares will be delivered to the holder’s designated account. Such conversion will be free of charge during the initial six months from and including the first day of trading in Octave SDRs on Nasdaq Stockholm, and thereafter requires payment of a conversion fee by the holder or its nominee or broker. Holders should contact their bank, broker or other nominee for detailed instructions and timing applicable to their account. Morgan Stanley, Rothschild & Co and Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB (publ) are lead financial advisors to Hexagon and Octave in relation to the distribution and listings of Octave. Sullivan & Cromwell LLP, Mannheimer Swartling Advokatbyrå AB and Arthur Cox LLP are legal counsel to Hexagon and Octave as to U.S., Swedish and Irish law, respectively, in relation to the distribution and listings of Octave.

Pointer has appointed Christopher Valentino as Senior Business Development Manager, strengthening the company's presence as it expands in the UK data centre security market. The appointment comes at a time of continued momentum for Pointer, which has been building its profile across critical infrastructure and data centre environments through a combination of specialist fire and security integration, in-house design capability, regional delivery strength and long-term service support. With more than 50 years of experience, 300-plus specialists internationally and seven UK locations, Pointer is continuing to invest in the people and capabilities needed to support complex, high-assurance environments. Life safety systems Christopher joins the business with extensive experience in the security sector and a remit to support strategic growth and help more organisations access Pointer's integrated fire and security expertise. His appointment reflects the company's focus on sectors where resilience and compliance are central to the brief, particularly data centres, where physical security and life safety systems are increasingly recognised as mission-critical. UK data centres now sit at the heart of the country's digital backbone and are under growing pressure to meet rising expectations around operational continuity and compliance. Pointer brings decades of critical national infrastructure experience to hyperscale, colocation and edge environments. Its data centre offer spans perimeter protection, advanced access control, IP video, grey space and white space protection, integrated fire detection, specialist design and long-term maintenance support. Critical environments markets Christopher Valentino, Senior Business Development Manager at Pointer, said: "Pointer has built its reputation over more than five decades by delivering complex fire and security projects with integrity, technical depth and long-term commitment to its clients. That was a major part of what attracted me to the business.” “Across data centres, critical infrastructure and other high-resilience environments, clients need more than just technology. They need a trusted partner who understands the operational importance of security, safety, compliance, resilience and long-term support. I'm excited to be joining Pointer at a pivotal stage in its growth and to be playing a key role in building our London presence, strengthening our position across England, and delivering a focused growth strategy across the data centre, CNI and wider critical environments markets." Building strong relationships Stuart Maxwell, Commercial Director at Pointer, said: “Christopher’s appointment is an important step for Pointer. He has quickly embraced the business, building strong relationships with our colleagues, clients and technology partners while developing a clear understanding of the demands within critical environments. Data centres are a key growth area for us, and Christopher is already helping to strengthen our position and engagement across that market.” Pointer's growing focus on data centres reflects wider market change. As digital infrastructure becomes more strategically important to the UK economy, operators and project teams are placing greater emphasis on layered protection, secure-by-design thinking, integrated systems and proactive lifecycle support. The company's recent thought leadership has highlighted the role electronic fire and security systems now play in protecting uptime, business continuity and trust across mission-critical facilities. Dependable service model Christopher's appointment also supports Pointer's broader growth trajectory across the UK. Alongside its expanding sector presence, the company has continued to invest in regional reach, including the recent opening of its London office. For data centre operators, consultants and contractors, the commercial requirement is increasingly clear. They need delivery partners that can align fire, security, design, compliance and long-term support into a single, dependable service model. Pointer's investment in commercial leadership is designed to strengthen that position further.

Scality, a global pioneer in data infrastructure software for AI-era storage at scale, announces a strategic partnership with Biomemory, the pioneer in industrial-grade DNA-based data storage systems, to accelerate the development and enterprise integration of DNA-based cold archive storage. Together, the two companies will work to position DNA storage as a viable, ultra-secure, and long-term archival tier within modern object storage environments, complementing existing flash, disk and tape infrastructure rather than replacing it. To strengthen the partnership, Scality CEO Jerome Lecat is on Biomemory's board of directors. Enterprise-grade metrics The partnership brings together Scality's software-defined S3 object storage platform, built to span and optimise across multiple storage media types, with Biomemory's data centre-oriented DNA storage systems, which are designed with enterprise-grade metrics and a modular architecture. The collaboration will focus on integrating DNA storage as a new, ultra-secure cold archive tier within Scality-managed storage environments including Scality ADI, its autonomous data infrastructure solution. The integration roadmap will be developed jointly by both companies in the coming months. Archival storage solution DNA data storage is transitioning from scientific research to commercial application, establishing itself as an archival storage solution optimised for extreme longevity and minimal operational demands. This emerging tier is uniquely suited for data that must endure for decades, offering near-zero media refresh requirements and zero power consumption at rest. Its core value proposition is ideal for "keep forever, read rarely" scenarios where data integrity and extreme longevity are non-negotiable. Key applications include national archives, scientific and genomic data repositories, media and entertainment preservation, regulated financial and healthcare records, and sovereign or defense workloads. The most immediate demand is expected from organisations responsible for preserving high-value data over multi-decade timeframes, where loss, corruption or unreadability could carry severe financial, legal, operational or societal consequences. Multi-decade timeframes The recent acquisition of assets from DNA pioneer Catalog Technologies strengthens Biomemory's foundation and accelerates its market readiness. This strategic move marks a decisive step in Biomemory's journey to bring DNA Data Storage from the lab to an industrialised IT solution. "The future of data storage is not a single medium; it is a spectrum of storage qualities, each optimised for the demands of the data it holds. DNA storage represents the logical culmination of that spectrum: a cold archive tier with density, secure immutability, and longevity that no conventional medium can approach. Our partnership with Biomemory is a strategic investment in owning that future. By bringing DNA into the Scality ecosystem now, we ensure our customers, which include the world's most demanding enterprises, governments, and service providers, will be ready to harness it as it matures. And by being on Biomemory's board, I'm personally committed to helping accelerate that journey for the entire industry." - Jerome Lecat, CEO, Scality. Cyber-resilience framework The strategic logic of the partnership is to extend existing capabilities in long-term data archive policy management, intelligent tiering, secure and cyber-resilient chain of custody. Scality is ideally positioned to serve as a massive-scale control plane around Biomemory’s DNA storage as the technology matures, enhancing the company’s CORE5 cyber-resilience framework to new levels of secure data storage. "Biomemory is building DNA storage with enterprise scale and enterprise expectations. Not as a laboratory curiosity, but as a modular, data centre-ready archival system. To realise that vision, we work with software partners who understand the full stack: how data moves, how policies are enforced, how resilience is maintained across tiers, and how enterprises actually manage the lifecycle of their most valuable assets. Scality is the ideal partner for that challenge. Their hardware-aware, software-defined architecture is precisely the kind of control plane that DNA storage needs to reach its potential in production environments. Having Jerome on our board brings not just strategic alignment, but deep operational experience scaling storage platforms globally." - Erfan Arwani, CEO, Biomemory.

HiveWatch, a physical security software company reimagining how organisations keep their people and assets safe, releases The State of Physical Security Operations in 2026, a new benchmark report examining how enterprise physical security programs actually perform when measured against operational realities, including alarm volume, SLA attainment, operational maturity, and AI adoption. Commissioned through independent research firm Censuswide, the report surveyed 300 U.S.-based professionals responsible for physical security operations at organisations with 500 or more employees and at least $5 million in annual revenue. The findings reveal a striking disconnect between confidence and operational effectiveness across modern security operations centers (SOCs). Lower-maturity programs “At a time when security teams are being asked to manage more devices, more alerts, and more operational complexity than ever before, many organisations still lack the visibility and operational benchmarks needed to understand how effectively their programs are actually performing,” said Ryan Schonfeld, Co-Founder and CEO, HiveWatch. “This report highlights the growing gap between perceived readiness and measurable performance, while also showing how AI and automation are beginning to separate mature security operations from those struggling to keep pace.” Among the report’s key findings: Large enterprises report false alarm rates approaching 44% Nearly 30% of organisations still rely on manual device health checks instead of fully automated monitoring systems 97% of respondents are either currently using AI or actively evaluating it for security operations AI adoption reaches 75% among organisations that rate themselves at the highest maturity levels, compared to 43% among lower-maturity programs The report also identifies a growing “automation deficit” across the industry, with operators spending significant time on repetitive administrative work such as manual alarm triage and routine notifications instead of higher-value threat analysis and response. Making meaningful progress “The physical security industry has spent years talking about technology adoption, but the more important question is whether security programs are remaining operationally effective as complexity scales,” said Jordan Hill, Co-Founder & Head of Product, HiveWatch. “The organisations making meaningful progress are the ones operationalising AI and automation to reduce noise, improve response, and give operators the ability to focus on actual threats.” The report combines independent survey data with operational benchmark insights from HiveWatch customer environments to provide security leaders with comparative data across operational maturity, AI adoption, device monitoring, alarm management, and SOC structure.

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces that its proactive AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software has been deployed by Perry-Lecompton USD 343 in Kansas to help protect students, staff, and visitors from gun-related threats. Located in Northeastern Kansas, Perry-Lecompton USD 343 serves approximately 730 students and employs 160 staff members district-wide. The district will deploy ZeroEyes at Perry-Lecompton Middle School and Perry-Lecompton High School as part of its continued commitment to maintaining a safe, welcoming learning environment. Broader community initiatives The district secured funding through the Kansas Safe and Secure Firearm Detection Grant Program, administered by the Office of the Kansas Attorney General, to purchase and implement ZeroEyes. The grant followed coordination with local law enforcement and community leaders to identify AI gun detection as a key safety priority aligned with broader community initiatives. “The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority,” said Justin Dunnaway, Assistant Superintendent of Perry-Lecompton USD 343. “We are proud to have secured funding through the Kansas firearm detection grant program to bring ZeroEyes to our middle and high school campuses. This technology adds another proactive layer of protection and aligns with the collaborative safety efforts we’ve been building alongside local law enforcement and community leaders.” Situational awareness software layers 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 operations center staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If the threat is determined to be valid, alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — are dispatched to law enforcement and school officials, often in a matter of seconds from the moment a gun is detected. “Perry-Lecompton USD 343 has taken a thoughtful and proactive approach to campus safety,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “By leveraging state grant funding and building upon existing security investments, the district is demonstrating its strong commitment to protecting students and staff while preserving the close-knit culture that defines its community.”

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces that its proactive AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software has been renewed by Sumter County Schools following two successful years of deployment. Serving nine schools across rural Sumter County, the district supports approximately 6,000 students and 700 faculty and staff. ZeroEyes has been integrated across these schools as part of the district’s commitment to maintaining a safe, secure, and welcoming learning environment. Welcoming learning environment “I personally have been very impressed with ZeroEyes since day one,” said Philip Martin, Safety and Security Specialist for Sumter County Schools. “The level of detail that ZeroEyes provides, as well as the responsiveness of their customer service, is outstanding. Communication is always quick, which is critical from a customer standpoint. It’s reassuring to know that this technology is helping keep our students and staff safe.” Sumter County Schools maintains a strong, collaborative relationship with local law enforcement. The district works closely with the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, ensuring that security protocols are consistent, proactive, and responsive. This renewal reinforces the district’s dedication to combining modern technology with community-centred safety measures. Intelligent situational awareness 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 operations center staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If the threat is determined to be valid, alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — are dispatched to law enforcement and school officials, often in a matter of seconds from the moment a gun is detected. “Sumter County Schools has demonstrated a thoughtful and proactive approach to campus safety,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “By leveraging real-time intelligence, the district continues to protect its students and faculty while preserving the close-knit community culture that makes Sumter County special.”

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, 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.”