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

Yubico joins ECSO for phishing-resistant security
Yubico joins ECSO for phishing-resistant security

Yubico, the pioneer of phishing-resistant authentication and creator of the most secure hardware-backed passkey – the YubiKey – announces its official acceptance as a member of the European Cyber Security Organisation (ECSO), a pan-European public-private federation focused on empowering European cybersecurity communities. The membership empowers both Yubico and ECSO to accelerate a shared commitment to advancing phishing-resistant authentication and modern digital identity standards across Europe. ECSO welcomes Yubico at a pivotal moment, as organisations across the continent – and globally – struggle to mitigate a massive wave of sophisticated credential-based attacks easily bypassing traditional passwords and legacy, phishable multi-factor authentication (MFA). As AI-driven phishing attacks targeting digital identities surged over 200 percent in Europe, this membership highlights Yubico's role as a trusted cybersecurity leader and innovator in digital identity protection throughout Europe. Global cybersecurity innovation “Welcoming Yubico to ECSO is a strong signal of where the European cybersecurity ecosystem is heading,” said Dr Joanna Świątkowska, secretary general at ECSO. “Their globally recognised expertise in authentication and identity protection reflects the level of innovation and excellence required to ensure Europe’s digital sovereignty. Yubico stands as a compelling proof point that Europe can be both secure and at the forefront of global cybersecurity innovation. Welcome to the Family!” While Yubico operates today as a global company supporting organisations in over 160 countries, it holds ongoing, longstanding deep roots in Europe. Founded in Sweden in 2007, the company maintains its European headquarters and significant engineering presence in Stockholm. Yubico continues its legacy of local manufacturing in Sweden, delivering European-made, high-assurance security solutions across the continent and beyond. Automated enterprise environments By partnering with ECSO, Yubico aims to expand its focus on building cyber resilient environments for European businesses, governments and critical infrastructure. The collaboration will focus heavily on education and best practices for accelerating the deployment of modern, hardware-backed passkeys like the YubiKey, eliminating insecure legacy MFA, and establishing strict accountability chains for automated enterprise environments. “Our alliance with ECSO marks a major milestone in Yubico’s mission to make the digital world safer for all,” said Jerrod Chong, chief executive officer at Yubico. “Stockholm, along with our presence in countries like France, Germany and the UK, continues to anchor our commitment to European security and digital sovereignty. We look forward to partnering closely with ECSO to help organisations scale passwordless authentication responsibly, close the identity verification gap, and firmly secure both human and non-human identities across the enterprise.” Phishing-resistant hardware passkeys Yubico’s integration into the ECSO community aligns with broader structural shifts in European cyber policy, including the expanding momentum around European Digital Identity (EUDI) wallets. Yubico continues to drive open identity standards globally and has recently pioneered efforts in the EU to ensure digital identity wallets are backed by non-syncable, phishing-resistant hardware passkeys. As European enterprises navigate tightening regulatory regimes and escalating automated threats, Yubico's role as an ECSO partner ensures that the cornerstone of modern security – verifiable human presence and touch – remains at the heart of the region's cyber defence strategy.

Quorum cyber's new CEO: Kevin Hanes leads expansion
Quorum cyber's new CEO: Kevin Hanes leads expansion

Quorum Cyber, an a-winning Microsoft-first cyber security services provider, announces the appointment of Kevin Hanes as its new CEO to drive the next stage of global expansion. As a seasoned cyber security executive, growth leader, and recognised innovator with a proven track record of scaling high-performance teams, Hanes has led both Reveal Security and Cybrary as CEO, served as COO of Secureworks for eight years – where he built the firm's EMEA presence and Romania operations from scratch – and as Executive Director at Dell Technologies. His extensive leadership qualities, experience, and vision are ideally suited to delivering long-term, sustainable, enterprise value-creation at Quorum Cyber. Achieving operational excellence Hanes is passionate about collaborating closely with customers and supporting them to solve their biggest cyber security problems, fighting bullies, and helping good people win. His focus will be on protecting as many organisations as possible, achieving operational excellence, and building momentum to scale and optimise the business. With over 25 years of executive experience in the cyber security industry, Hanes’ unsurpassed track record underscores Quorum Cyber’s ambitious international expansion plans, and its strategy to serve the Microsoft ecosystem worldwide. “With growing AI risks in cyber security, enterprises and organisations need access to Quorum Cyber’s solutions more than ever. Kevin Hanes has the experience, expertise, and vision required to lead the company to the next chapter in its growth journey and I’m confident that he’ll transform Quorum Cyber into a global Microsoft-first cyber security powerhouse,” says Darren Battistoni, Chairman of the Board of Quorum Cyber and Managing Director of Eterna Growth Partners. Fastest-growing businesses “I’m excited and honoured to be joining Quorum Cyber at a time when cyber security is undergoing massive changes at a rapid pace,” says CEO Kevin Hanes. “This is an excellent time for us to capitalise on, and harness, AI-powered technology, and fuse it together with human experience and touch at the right points to keep our customers safe around the clock and defending at machine-speed.”   Last week, Quorum Cyber achieved a place on the inaugural 2026 edition of The Sunday Times Scotland Fast 50, a prestigious annual list of Scotland’s fastest-growing businesses. Among its many other accolades are the 2025 Microsoft Security MSSP of the Year, Best Cybersecurity Service Provider of the Year at the Globee Awards 2026, ScotlandIS Digital Technology Business of the Year for 2026, and Cybersecurity Company of the Year at the 2025 Scottish Cyber Awards.

Infinigate appoints Kai Grunwitz as chief growth officer
Infinigate appoints Kai Grunwitz as chief growth officer

The Infinigate Group, a technology platform and trusted advisor in Cybersecurity, Cloud and Network Infrastructure, has appointed Kai Grunwitz as Chief Growth Officer (CGO), reinforcing the company’s commitment to scaling its growth strategy and deepening value for vendors and channel partners. As CGO, Kai will be responsible for advancing some of Infinigate’s most important strategic growth priorities, including strengthening the company’s vendor portfolio, expanding differentiated services and solutions, enhancing partner value creation, and elevating Infinigate’s marketing and brand leadership. High-performing organisations A seasoned business leader and technology executive with deep expertise in cybersecurity and digital transformation, Kai brings more than 30 years of experience leading high-performing organisations across the global IT industry. Throughout his career, he has successfully driven business growth, transformation, and innovation at scale. He has a strong track record of international leadership, with senior roles at Sun Microsystems, Oracle, and NTT DATA. His previous positions include Chief Executive Officer of NTT Germany, Senior Vice President of NTT Security EMEA, and Head of Transformational Portfolio, Innovation and Alliances at NTT DATA EMEA. Most recently, he served as President of Kyndryl Germany. Ambitious growth strategy “I am delighted to join Infinigate at such a pivotal time for the cybersecurity industry. As AI transforms the technology landscape and reshapes cyber risk, the role of specialized value-added distribution has never been more critical. With its market-leading portfolio, extensive vendor ecosystem, and strong thought leadership, Infinigate is uniquely positioned to help vendors and channel partners capture the opportunities ahead. I am honoured to join the company and excited to work with our teams, vendors, and partners to accelerate growth and further strengthen Infinigate’s leadership in the cybersecurity channel.” Marco van Kalleveen, CEO of Infinigate Group, said: “Kai’s appointment is a significant milestone for Infinigate as we continue to execute our ambitious growth strategy. The Chief Growth Officer role is central to advancing our strategic priorities, and Kai brings the leadership experience, market insight and industry credibility to help us further strengthen our position as the leading cybersecurity VAD platform. We are delighted to welcome him to the business.”

Zenitel cloud RMM: Enhance connectivity & efficiency
Zenitel cloud RMM: Enhance connectivity & efficiency

Zenitel, a global pioneer in Unified Critical Communication solutions, announces the introduction of Zenitel Cloud Remote Monitoring & Management (RMM), a cloud-enabled extension to Zenitel Connect Pro designed to simplify the monitoring, maintenance, and lifecycle management of Zenitel’s communication systems across multi-site environments in onshore applications. As organisations increasingly rely on connected communication infrastructure to support safety, security, and operational continuity, the ability to remotely monitor and maintain these systems has become increasingly important. By extending Zenitel Connect Pro with cloud-based remote monitoring and management capabilities, Zenitel Cloud RMM enables organisations to improve operational assurance while reducing maintenance costs and operational downtime. Connected communication infrastructure Zenitel Connect Pro already unifies intercom, Public Address, Voice Alarm, IP speakers, and related communication technologies into one cohesive operational platform. With the addition of Zenitel Cloud RMM, organisations can now extend this unified approach beyond communication workflows into centralised system oversight, diagnostics, and proactive service management. “Zenitel Cloud RMM is designed as a natural extension of Zenitel Connect Pro,” said Rory Martin, Product Manager at Zenitel. “With Zenitel Connect Pro and Zenitel Cloud RMM, we are evolving Unified Critical Communication beyond communication itself – enabling organisations to manage, maintain, and optimise critical communication infrastructure more intelligently throughout its lifecycle.” Multi-site environments Designed for multi-site environments, Zenitel Cloud RMM provides centralised visibility and management capabilities across connected Zenitel devices, including: Real-time monitoring of device and system health Centralised overview across multiple sites Proactive alerts and notifications Remote diagnostics and troubleshooting Firmware and lifecycle management Improving operational efficiency By reducing the need for on-site interventions and enabling faster issue resolution, Zenitel Cloud RMM helps organisations improve operational efficiency while maintaining continuous system availability. Built with cybersecurity and operational resilience in mind, Zenitel Cloud RMM uses secure cloud communication principles and is developed in alignment with recognised frameworks and governance practices, including GDPR, CCPA, SOC 2 Type II, and ISO 27001 principles.

Access control applications

Comelit-PAC fire system upgrade at Rampworx Skatepark
Comelit-PAC fire system upgrade at Rampworx Skatepark

Comelit-PAC has partnered with Optic Fire & Security Solutions to deliver an upgrade to the fire alarm system at Rampworx Skatepark, the UK’s largest indoor extreme sports centre. Established in 1997, Rampworx is one of the UK’s longest-running skateparks and a major community facility in Merseyside. As a registered charity, it supports more than 1,000 young people every week and reinvests all income back into maintaining and developing its skatepark, programmes and retail operations. Multiple interconnected areas With a large and constantly active indoor environment, Rampworx required a fire alarm system capable of delivering consistent coverage across multiple interconnected areas. These included skate zones, spectator spaces, retail units and staff facilities while allowing daily activity to continue without disruption. Says Rachael Robinson at Rampworx Skatepark: “As a busy charity facility with thousands of weekly visitors, it was important for us to work with a company we could trust to guide us through the entire upgrade process for our fire alarm. Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions understood the requirements and recommended a Comelit-PAC solution. The new system provides confidence and peace of mind, knowing it has been designed around us and the way we operate.” Live operational environment Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions worked closely with Rampworx to design and install a tailored system using Comelit-PAC fire safety systems, ensuring the solution reflected both the operational demands and the unique layout of the building site. The installation was delivered within a live operational environment, requiring careful planning and coordination to ensure the skatepark remained open throughout much of the works. Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions phased the installation to minimise disruption to visitors, staff and ongoing activities. Sase Boardman, Director at Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions added: “Every area of Rampworx presented different considerations from a fire safety perspective. By working closely with the team and technical specialists at Comelit-PAC, we were able to carefully deliver a fire safety system known for its adaptability, reliability, and scalability to provide consistent protection across a complex, multi-use environment.” Fire detection coverage The completed system provides enhanced fire detection coverage across the entire facility, improving response capability and strengthening life safety provision for users, staff and volunteers. Mandy Bowden, Fire Systems Business Manager UK & ROI: “This project was delivered through close collaboration with Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions and Responsible Persons on site, taking time to understand the specific requirements of the Rampworx environment. By combining this insight, we were able to specify a bespoke fire safety system, enabling a unified detection and control approach across areas with very different occupancy and risk profiles.”

ZeroEyes: AI gun detection at Colby schools
ZeroEyes: AI gun detection at Colby schools

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 Colby Public Schools in Kansas to help protect students, staff, and visitors from gun-related threats. Located in a rural community in northwestern Kansas, Colby Public Schools serves approximately 950 students across three campuses, including an elementary school, middle school, and high school, supported by a staff of 175 employees. The district’s close-knit environment fosters strong relationships among students, staff, and the broader community. 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. “As a smaller district, we don’t have the resources to dedicate someone to monitoring cameras at all times,” said Lucas Schnider, IT Director at Colby Public Schools. “ZeroEyes acts as an extra set of eyes to catch something we might otherwise miss. Most security tools are reactive, but this gives us a proactive way to respond and better protect our students and staff.” Situational awareness software 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. Strong working relationship Colby Public Schools maintains a strong working relationship with local law enforcement, with officers regularly collaborating with the district to support safety initiatives and respond quickly when needed. This partnership reinforces the district’s commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment. “Colby Public Schools is building a culture of safety where students can learn, grow, and thrive every day,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “By leveraging state grant funding and strengthening their existing safety partnerships, the district is demonstrating its commitment to protecting students and staff while preserving the close-knit culture that defines its community.”

Genetec boosts security at Southwest Wyoming regional airport
Genetec boosts security at Southwest Wyoming regional airport

Genetec Inc., the global pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces that Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport (RKS) has modernised its physical security operations using Genetec™ Security Center. The airport selected Genetec as part of its terminal modernisation project to support future expansion, evolving Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requirements, and potential new carriers and flight routes. Located outside Rock Springs in Sweetwater County, Wyoming, the regional airport supports more than 11,000 annual flight operations and serves more than 50,000 passengers annually. The airport recently completed a $43 million commercial terminal modernisation project. As part of the upgrade, airport leaders wanted to replace aging video surveillance and access control systems with an open and flexible platform that would allow them to expand security infrastructure without being locked into proprietary systems. Terminal modernisation project Working with systems integrator Incline Technology, the airport deployed Genetec Security Center to unify video surveillance, access control, and alarms in a single interface. According to Nic Hasler, Founder and President of Incline Technology, “Our vision from the start was to deliver a system for RKS that’s easy to operate and support, and ready for future expansion.” With Security Center, the RKS team now has full visibility across the airport terminal, weather station, fuel station, and Sweetwater Aviation facility. This allows them to improve visibility across the airport, respond faster to incidents, and streamline day-to-day security management from one platform. Security and airport operations “Genetec Security Center brings everything into one place, which helps us manage security and airport operations much more efficiently than before. We’re only scratching the surface of what the system can do. This is the foundation we needed to keep adding capabilities and enhancing our operations,” said Devon Brubaker, Airport Director at Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport. Airport staff is also using the Quick Search feature in Security Center to accelerate investigations and reduce the time spent reviewing footage after incidents. After a reported theft in the airport micro market, the team used Quick Search to review footage, identify when the inventory changed, and confirm within minutes that the item had been purchased but mislabelled. “We might be a small airport, but investing in Genetec Security Center allows us to operate like a much larger one. The platform helps us work more efficiently today and sets us up to say yes to new opportunities in the future,” said Brubaker.

Xtract One SmartGateway adopted by PRHC
Xtract One SmartGateway adopted by PRHC

Xtract One Technologies announces its Xtract One SmartGateway has been selected by Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) for facility entrance deployment following a successful pilot and evaluation period. The selection reflects PRHC’s leadership and commitment to exploring innovative approaches to healthcare safety and adds to Xtract One’s growing presence in healthcare environments. This selection in Ontario follows previous Canadian deployments across Prince Edward Island, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia. Recognised as an innovator in Ontario’s healthcare system serving a regional referral population of 600,000 people, PRHC is taking a proactive approach to addressing modern security challenges. The organisation recently convened a security forum for healthcare leaders across the province of Ontario to collaborate on best practices, followed by a hands-on, three-week pilot to evaluate emerging technologies in a real-world clinical environment. Adopting innovative approaches After the comprehensive pilot and extensive testing, PRHC selected SmartGateway for its ability to detect a broad range and large volume of weapons, ease of use, and seamless integration into the hospital’s operational flow. The deployment will take place at the facility’s Emergency Department entrance. PRHC’s decision reinforces the organisation’s role as a leader in evaluating and adopting innovative approaches to healthcare safety across Ontario. “Healthcare organisations are increasingly embracing digital transformation strategies that enhance safety without compromising the patient experience,” said Peter Evans, CEO of Xtract One. “Our work with Peterborough Regional Health Centre demonstrates how forward-thinking providers can balance intelligent screening technology that proactively addresses modern threats with the openness and accessibility that are essential to care environments. We’re proud to support PRHC as it sets a new standard for healthcare safety in Ontario while contributing to the growing adoption of advanced AI-driven solutions. As more organisations follow in PRHC’s footsteps, we look forward to expanding our provincial and healthcare presence.” Undergo secondary screening “As the Peterborough region’s largest employer, PRHC views care and safety as inseparable. We believe that every team member, patient, family member, and caregiver deserves to feel safe and supported from the moment they walk through our doors,” said Jennifer Taylor, Vice President and CFO at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. “SmartGateway is a solution we’re proud to introduce in our Emergency Department, where it will support us to uphold this standard for patients and families, who depend on us to be there when they need us most.” Modern healthcare settings SmartGateway delivers intelligent, high-throughput security screening using advanced AI-powered sensors that discreetly detect weapons and prohibited items as individuals enter a facility. The system enables fast, accurate screening without requiring individuals to stop, divest personal belongings, or undergo secondary screening. Unlike traditional metal detectors, SmartGateway supports a continuous flow of movement, allowing healthcare facilities to maintain efficient ingress even during peak periods. By combining robust detection capabilities with a frictionless user experience, SmartGateway helps create safer environments while preserving the welcoming, patient-centred atmosphere critical to modern healthcare settings.