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.

ISC West 2025 in Las Vegas showcased the latest advancements in security technology, offering security professionals a glimpse into the future of the industry. This year's expo highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and enhanced integration. The pioneering comprehensive and converged security event attracted nearly 29,000 industry professionals to the Venetian Convention Centre.  Integration into unified platforms Several companies emphasised the importance of cloud-based solutions and the integration of diverse security components into unified platforms. For example, Brivo's Security Suite provides “everything in one platform” – not just access control. Customers only pay for what they use because the system is flexible and scalable from a single door to enterprise level applications. Brivo’s suite includes video, but the system can also tie in with third-party “partners.” Genetec's Security Centre allows for more frequent updates through the cloud. Milestone is undergoing a two-year transition to bring its Xprotect system into the future by incorporating Arcules and Briefcam into a video-as-a service product. Suprema introduced BioStar X, which integrates access control and video analytics into a single platform. AI and mobile credentials  Axis Communications’ Cloud Connect product announced three new partnerships at ISC West 2025 Axis Communications’ Cloud Connect product announced three new partnerships at ISC West – Eagle Eye Networks, SecuriThings, and Wesco. They join the three partners announced during the first year of Axis Cloud Connect – Genetec, Kone (elevators) and Milestone. AI and mobile credentials were still hot topics at ISC West 2025, but the conversation has evolved beyond amazement at the technologies’ capabilities and now centres on more practical aspects. From the theoretical to the practical “AI and mobility are still the ‘flavors de jour,’ but messages are evolving to manifest AI for better outcomes,” says Heather Torrey, General Manager, Commercial Security, Americas, for Honeywell Building Automation. The company has reframed its security portfolio to be very building- and business-focused, continuing to grow and evolve after the recent acquisition of LenelS2. “From the theoretical to the practical, we want customers to be part of the conversation so we can deliver AI that is meaningful to them, focusing on what’s most important,” says Torrey. Under Honeywell’s new ownership structure, “each part of the business can be more focused on customers’ needs,” she says. Honeywell continues its journey around mobile access and credentialing and migrating to cloud solutions. Innovations in Access Control Gallagher’s new Quickswitch access control board simplifies the migration from legacy systems Access control remains a critical component of security systems, and ISC West 2025 showcased several innovations in this area. Acre is releasing “Gallery,” its version of the App Store for access control. DormaKaba is launching the Keyscan KC Series door controller with TCP/IP connectivity and enhanced features. Gallagher’s new Quickswitch access control board simplifies the migration from legacy systems. Johnson Controls highlighted its C-Cure command centre and C-Cure IQ web client, offering a unified approach to access control and video. Hardware integrations for security panels For service provider Alarm.com, hardware products prepare a path to greater customer experiences, says Abe Kinney, Alarm.com’s Director, Product Management, who oversees hardware integrations for security panels, sensors, video, etc., and drives new product development. “We are looking to bridge the physical world to digital world,” he says. “We want to bring an advantage to our dealers that they can bring to customers.” Because Alarm.com’s customers pay a monthly fee, the products must be durable and economical, says Kinney. “It should work with no need for truck rolls.” The importance of longevity and flexibility Products are evaluated based on features, price, and ease of installation Products are evaluated based on features, price, and ease of installation. In particular, longevity is important for the Alarm.com’s pro channel. There is also a growing emphasis on deterrence industrywide. Says Kinney: “We recognise that detection is part of it, but we need to prevent problems from happening in the first place. And the industry is re-evaluating.” When it comes to cloud intelligence, Eagle Eye Networks puts the emphasis on flexibility. They offer AI that can perform anywhere on the system infrastructure, on the camera, on their on-site bridge device, or in the cloud. They support their own AI and also any AI product from a third party. “We focus on what customers want from the data AI detects,” says Hans Kahler, Eagle Eye Networks’ Chief Operating Officer. Integration with other systems A timely alert from gun detection could save a life, but AI can also generate information that might be used and analysed later, such as point-of-sale information, dwell time, foot traffic, etc. “What people want is the ability to work with the data for business intelligence,” says Kahler. Integration with other systems provides new opportunities for customers: For example, a licence plate reader at a restaurant drive-thru could trigger customisation of the menu board digital signage based on the customer’s previous buying pattern. Relentless Innovation Assa Abloy handles more than 40 million SKUs for all its various brands, faked in 28 factories in the US Assa Abloy handles more than 40 million stock keeping units (SKUs) for all its various brands manufactured in 28 factories in the United States. Merely complying with regulations such as the “Buy American Act” is a monumental effort considering the massive product line, attendees heard at Assa Abloy’s Annual ISC West Breakfast focusing on compliance challenges in the security market. Meanwhile, back at the trade show booth, Assa Abloy focused on “relentless innovation” in every corner of its product line. Assa Abloy’s message: Innovation in security does not have to be about AI or automation. In fact, inventive approaches to products come in all shapes and sizes and at every level of the product portfolio, and innovation is happening faster than ever. For example, the Safebolt product from Securitech, a brand recently acquired by Assa Abloy, can quickly lock down existing doors with the press of a red button on a cylindrical or mortise lock. Temporary Systems to Secure Events Securing events is the focus of Allied Universal's Unified Command Solutions, which specialises in setting up temporary security systems for conventions, trade shows, festivals, construction sites, parades, and other events. They can add technology to situations where previously mostly security officers were used, providing safety/security and enabling more efficient event operation.  “We can put cameras anywhere, whether they need power or not, use cell service or WiFi, a localised network or the internet, or whatever,” says Andrew LaMadrid, VP, Sales for Allied Universal's Unified Command Solutions. Event operation and management IDIS came to ISC West looking to leverage new products that they did not promote in the past The focus is on easy implementation, flexibility, and fast setup and removal. “We look for a solution to solve each customer’s pain points,” says LaMadrid. They specialise in setting up and deploying surveillance cameras for safety/security and for event operation and management. Mobile surveillance is a relatively new “piece of our puzzle” when it comes to protecting high-profile events. “People are excited about what we can offer that’s new,” says LaMadrid. Unified Command Solutions has been around for about 12 years and was acquired by Allied Universal last summer. IDIS came to ISC West looking to leverage new products that they did not promote in the past, and visitors were very interested in those solutions, says Scott Switzer, IDIS CEO. “The progression of our product line has been tremendous,” he says. Last year, the IDIS booth offered only basic analytics, but this year they had 30 different advanced analytics including gun and aggression detection using the advanced solution “IDIS Vaidio AI.”  What Makes You Different? The most common question IDIS hears at their trade show booth is: “What makes you different?” The answer: They offer an end-to-end solution, including cameras; they manage, control, design from end-to-end; and there is no need for multiple integrations. The time needed to install an IDIS system is significantly less because of the simplicity. “We have customers we have supported and grown together for over 20 years,” says Switzer. The company previously deployed IDIS cameras under the Costar brand before the Korean IDIS brand was introduced into the U.S. (IDIS purchased Costar and changed the name to IDIS America.) “This has been a tremendous show for us; we are looking to build our momentum and let more people know about IDIS,” says Switzer. Managing real AI at the edge The depth of their metadata enables new applications, whether for security or business operations Based in Prague, Czech Republic, and with U.S. offices in Pennsylvania, FF Group provides licence plate recognition for harsh environments. Using Axis cameras, they offer “managed real AI at the edge,” selling through a nationwide distributed network, says Alex Osypov, CEO and Founder of FF Group. Markets include parking lots, cities/municipalities, police, government, water systems, etc. The depth of their metadata enables new applications, whether for security or business operations. They are looking to combine and correlate data including LIDAR, RADAR, etc. to exploit the advantages of “data fusion.” Osypov says: “The market is growing because we are involving other adjacent markets.” Unified platforms and advanced tools Several companies are focusing on enhancing security operations centres (SOCs) by providing unified platforms and advanced tools. Axon’s Fusus system “layers” onto existing infrastructure, tying together various sensors into a single interface for real-time monitoring and information sharing. Increasingly, enterprises have invested in a lot of technologies – ac, video, asset trackers – but none of it talks together. Fusus ties all the systems together so that operators no longer have to look at 10 different screens. Rather, there is a “single pane of glass” that shows everything and facilitates sharing of information with law enforcement.  Motorola also showcased its Security Operations Centre, which integrates hardware, software, smart sensors, communication radios, and broadband devices to streamline incident management.

Gallagher Security, a pioneer in integrated access control, intrusion detection, and perimeter solutions, is pleased to announce the expansion of their longstanding partnership with M.C. Dean through a new strategic solutions partner agreement. This marks a significant evolution in the relationship, enabling deeper global collaboration and extending Gallagher’s footprint across mission-critical environments worldwide. Mission-critical environments Since 2016, Gallagher and M.C. Dean have partnered to deliver trusted security solutions across some of the world’s most complex and secure environments. The decade-long partnership has been built on technical alignment, shared values, and a mutual commitment to protecting people, assets, and critical infrastructure. This renewed strategic focus reflects the strength and maturity of that relationship, elevating collaboration to support M.C. Dean’s global operations across the Americas, EMEA, and APAC. Together, the two organisations will work more closely to deliver integrated, cyber-physical security solutions designed for scale, resilience, and long-term performance. Cyber-physical solutions M.C. Dean designs, builds, operates, and maintains cyber-physical solutions for the world’s most recognisable mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. With more than 30 offices worldwide, M.C. Dean’s global reach and operational expertise align closely with Gallagher’s integrated security platform and commitment to high-assurance environments. “Our partnership with M.C. Dean has always been grounded in trust, technical excellence, and a shared vision for what security can enable,” says Mark Junge, Chief Executive of Gallagher Security. “After nearly a decade of working side by side, this strategic evolution represents a natural next step. It reflects the confidence we have in each other and our shared commitment to delivering intelligent, resilient security solutions on a global scale.” Mission-driven settings From Gallagher’s perspective, the expanded partnership strengthens its ability to support large-scale, mission-critical deployments through partners who operate at the highest levels of complexity and assurance. “This agreement reinforces our confidence in the work we do together and the environments we support,” says Jeff Fields, Director of Federal Programs – Americas at Gallagher Security. “M.C. Dean understands what it takes to deliver in high-consequence, mission-driven settings. This next phase of our partnership ensures we’re even better aligned to support customers who demand reliability, security, and long-term performance.” Most critical environments “Our relationship with Gallagher has grown steadily over the past decade, built on trust, technical rigor, and a shared commitment to protecting the world’s most critical environments,” said Julaine Simmons, senior vice president of M.C. Dean’s Security & Electronic Systems business unit. “Formalising this strategic partnership allows us to deepen our global collaboration, align more closely on innovation, and deliver next-generation security solutions that meet the scale, resilience, and assurance our customers require.” As both organisations continue to grow globally, this expanded partnership underscores a shared belief that the strongest security outcomes are achieved through long-term collaboration and a commitment to continuous innovation. Together, Gallagher Security and M.C. Dean are well positioned to support the evolving needs of secure, complex, and mission-critical environments around the world.

Checkmarx, the pioneer in agentic application security, announces IDE-native support for Kiro through Checkmarx Developer Assist, extending real-time, AI-powered application security directly into the developer environment. The integration allows developers to identify and address security issues as code is written, without leaving the IDE or relying on downstream CI/CD scans. As development accelerates, security risks surface earlier and more frequently. Developer Assist meets this challenge by embedding security analysis directly into the Kiro workflow, ensuring that speed and security advance together. Additional development workflows “With AI-driven development environments like Kiro, security must operate at developer speed,” said Jonathan Rende, chief product officer at Checkmarx. “Developer Assist brings agentic, policy-driven security insight directly into the IDE, helping developers understand real risk in real time while giving AppSec teams centralised visibility and control through Checkmarx One. With the Kiro agent powered by Checkmarx, developers can eliminate up to 90% of security rework before code is committed.” Using the official Checkmarx IDE extension, developers can activate Developer Assist inside Kiro with minimal setup (with support for additional development workflows including command-line interfaces planned). Once authenticated, Developer Assist analyses source code and dependencies in the active workspace, applying existing Checkmarx One policies automatically. No Kiro-specific configuration, proprietary APIs, or experimental integrations are required. AI-assisted development Security findings surface directly in the IDE with contextual detail, helping developers remediate issues early in the software lifecycle. At the same time, results are reflected in the Checkmarx One platform, providing AppSec and engineering leaders with a unified view of risk across projects and teams. By extending IDE-native application security into Kiro, Checkmarx enables organisations to adopt AI-assisted development with confidence, embedding security from the first line of code while maintaining enterprise-grade governance.

Everon, LLC, a security integrator and premier provider of commercial security, video, fire and life safety solutions ranked the third-largest security company in the U.S. by SDM Magazine, announced today its appointment to the National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO) Supplier Advisory Group (SAG) for the 2026–2027 term. Everon joins a select cohort of suppliers chosen to provide feedback, advice, and strategic counsel to NASPO leadership on critical issues shaping public procurement and cooperative purchasing. Local government operations NASPO’s Supplier Advisory Group brings together a diverse group of suppliers representing key industries that support state and local government operations. Members serve two-year terms and engage with NASPO leadership both virtually and in person to share insights on contract terms and conditions, solicitation processes, market trends, and opportunities to advance the value of cooperative purchasing programs nationwide. As a SAG member, Everon will provide perspective informed by decades of experience delivering mission-critical security, life safety, and technology solutions to government agencies across the U.S. Everon’s participation reinforces its commitment to helping state and local government leaders improve operational resilience, strengthen public safety infrastructure, and optimize procurement outcomes. Keeping communities safe “We are honoured to join NASPO’s Supplier Advisory Group and contribute to the meaningful dialogue that helps shape procurement best practices across the country,” said Scott Wulforst, Director, Business Development for State & Local Government at Everon. “State and local agencies rely on strategic partnerships to keep communities safe, and Everon is committed to supporting NASPO’s mission of advancing procurement excellence through innovation, transparency, and collaboration.”

Genetec Inc., the global pioneer in enterprise physical security software, released its Saudi Arabia findings from the 2026 State of Physical Security Report. Based on insights from more than 150 physical security professionals in Saudi Arabia, the findings show a market that is investing confidently in modern, connected security infrastructure, with strong momentum in cloud adoption and operational modernisation. Cloud adoption in Saudi Arabia The report reveals that Saudi Arabia has the highest proportion of cloud-based physical security systems in the EMEA region, with 13 percent of respondents stating they use cloud security systems, compared to the EMEA average of seven percent. This reflects a growing preference for flexible deployment models that support scalability, resilience and simplified system management. Security investment increasing as modernisation accelerates Saudi Arabia also recorded the highest level of operating expenditure growth among EMEA markets surveyed. Forty-three percent of respondents reported increased physical security budgets in 2025, nearly double the EMEA average of 24 percent. Among those reporting an increase, 92 percent said budgets grew by more than 10 percent, and nearly two-thirds (64 percent) reporting growth of 11 to 25 percent, highlighting sustained investment in security as a strategic business function. New infrastructure reduces legacy challenges Unlike many markets across EMEA, outdated infrastructure is not seen as a major barrier in Saudi Arabia. Only 12 percent of respondents cited legacy security infrastructure as a top challenge, compared with 44 percent across EMEA overall, reflecting the Kingdom’s continued investment in new infrastructure, smart cities and large-scale development projects. “Saudi organisations are moving quickly from traditional security deployments toward connected, flexible platforms that support broader operational requirements,” said Firas Jadalla, Regional Director for the Middle East and Africa at Genetec Inc. “The Saudi findings reinforce the Kingdom’s position as a fast-moving and future-focused security market, where organisations are prioritising sustained investment that aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 digital transformation goals.” Survey methodology The 2026 State of Physical Security Report draws on insights from more than 7,300 physical security professionals worldwide, including end users, channel partners, consultants, and manufacturers. The Saudi Arabia findings are based on responses from more than 150 participants and form part of the Middle East and Africa regional analysis.

A bespoke Hochiki Europe fire detection solution has been installed at Willis Aviation Services Limited’s extensive maintenance base at Teesside International Airport, setting a new benchmark for safety across specialist aviation environments. Spanning 45,000 m² of hangars, workshops and office space, Hangars 7 and 8 house multifunctional facilities where engineers work with high-value aircraft and potentially flammable materials, a combination that demands uncompromising fire protection. To meet these demands, Willis Aviation partnered with local life-safety specialist Render Alarms to design and install a fully tailored system built around Hochiki’s advanced intelligent detection technology. Hochiki’s ESP intelligent fire detection system At the heart of the installation is Hochiki’s ESP intelligent fire detection system, offering open-protocol flexibility and future-proof performance aligned with the forthcoming BS 5839-1 2025 standard. Across office environments, adjustable smoke and heat detectors provide highly reliable detection while helping to reduce unwanted alarms, an essential factor in maintaining operational continuity. In busy workshop areas, wall-mounted sounder beacons deliver clear visual alerts in high-noise conditions, ensuring warnings are both seen and heard. For the expansive and structurally complex hangar voids, Hochiki’s FIRElink aspirating detection system was specified, using laser-based technology to monitor large areas efficiently with enhanced sensitivity and reduced maintenance requirements. Installation Render Alarms’ installation team also utilised specialist design software to optimise the aspirating pipe network around the hangar’s structural framework, ensuring complete coverage and compliance. Luke Render, from Render Alarms, and the lead engineer on the project commented “Hochiki's bases are a gamechanger, one base fit all devices. The sensors effortlessly twist-fit onto the bases, which significantly reduced the install and commission time, without compromising quality.” Intelligent fire safety solution The result is a robust, intelligent fire safety solution that protects people, aircraft and infrastructure, while minimising disruption and supporting long-term operational resilience. As safety standards continue to evolve across aviation and industrial sectors, this project demonstrates how carefully specified, expertly installed detection technology can deliver confidence today and adaptability for tomorrow.

Interface Systems, a managed service provider delivering remote video monitoring, commercial security systems, business intelligence, and network services for multi-location enterprises, announces that the fast-food hamburger chain, White Castle, has successfully piloted Interface's AI-powered exterior security solution - Virtual Perimeter Guard™ at a high-risk St. Louis location. The pilot delivered measurable reductions in loitering, late-night incidents, and security escalations while improving safety for employees and customers. The pilot focused on a location experiencing after-hours security challenges, including loitering, open-air drug use, customer pestering in drive-thru lanes, and repeated vandalism that cost thousands of dollars per incident. Increased customer comfort Within the first 30 days of deployment, 91% of perimeter security events were resolved automatically through AI detection and live voice deterrence. The site saw a significant reduction in loitering, a reduced need for morning trash clearing, and late-night escalation calls dropped from about once a week to none. White Castle also reported improved employee morale, a stronger sense of safety, and increased customer comfort while waiting in late-night drive-thru lines. “Sometimes we don’t even realise something bad may be happening, and the Interface Security experts are already intervening and telling potential criminals to leave,” said Cheryl Soest, District Supervisor at White Castle. “That allows our team to focus on serving customers instead of worrying about what’s happening outside.” Pre-recorded warning systems Unlike traditional exterior cameras or prerecorded warning systems that are often ignored, Virtual Perimeter Guard combines AI-powered detection, escalating voice downs with powerful strobe lighting, and live security professionals who intervene in real time. The White Castle Virtual Perimeter Guard system is armed nightly when exterior visibility is limited. “People don’t take prerecorded messages seriously,” Soest added. “When the lights come on, and a live person speaks, they move. They don’t wait around.” Reducing cost exposure “What this deployment of Virtual Perimeter Guard demonstrates is the shift from reactive security to proactive prevention,” said Steve Womer, Senior Vice President of Product at Interface Systems. “By combining AI detection with live human intervention, Virtual Perimeter Guard stops issues before they escalate into property damage, safety incidents, or operational disruption. White Castle’s results show how perimeter intelligence can directly improve safety, reduce cost exposure, and give operators peace of mind without adding burden to store teams.” Actively monitoring footage Installation and onboarding were completed without disrupting restaurant operations. Interface Systems managed system tuning, testing, and ongoing monitoring, while White Castle leadership received weekly insight reports, eliminating the need for on-site staff to actively monitor footage. “We didn’t have to worry about anything,” Soest said. “They handled installation, testing, and walked us through everything step by step. The whole process was very easy.” Beyond loss prevention Beyond loss prevention, White Castle noted improvements in employee confidence and customer experience, particularly during late-night operations, where perceptions of safety directly affect retention and traffic. “If customers feel safe coming onto your lot, and team members feel safe working there, it improves your business,” Soest said. Following these positive early results, White Castle is evaluating full-perimeter coverage at the pilot location and potential expansion to additional restaurants with similar challenges.

Driven by Chile’s updated telecom regulations, Agile Ingeniería y Consultoría has partnered with Regula, a global developer of Identity Verification (IDV) solutions, to deploy a high-volume, high-compliance IDV system. The platform now enables the Chilean telecom sector to process more than 300,000 identity checks each month with the same document authentication accuracy used at border checkpoints, achieving a 96% conversion rate and full alignment with the country’s new requirements. Challenge Until recently, SIM activations and number portability in Chile were vulnerable to fraud due to a lack of reliable verification controls. The new regulation, introduced in early 2025, set stricter standards for verifying the identity of every user activating a phone line or prepaid SIM card. Solution To meet these requirements while keeping customer onboarding fast and frictionless, Agile integrated Regula Document Reader SDK into its identity verification platform.  Regula’s solution performs deep authenticity checks across MRZs, barcodes, RFID chips, holograms, and optically variable elements, using a liveness-centric approach to confirm the document’s physical presence and authenticity. It also cross-verifies data across all document zones to detect inconsistencies or tampering, exposing even sophisticated forgeries without slowing down the user journey. “Regula was brought in to specifically address the need to read and validate a range of identity documents that would have been very difficult for us to integrate on our own. Today, this allows us to verify and onboard individuals from anywhere in the world who have an identity document, significantly expanding our reach,” says Claudio Delgado, Co-Founder and Product Manager at Agile. Results After deploying Regula’s solution, there were several significant improvements, including: 96% customer conversion rate, even with added verification steps.300,000+ ID checks per month handled efficiently and securely. Significant reduction in fraud and SIM misuse.Full compliance with Chilean telecom Resolution No. 566/2024. Moderising technology “We’re proud to support Agile in modernising telecom identity verification in Latin America. Our technology delivers verification accuracy on par with border checkpoints, in any environment, helping organisations fight fraud with zero compromise on speed, trust, and compliance,” comments Ihar Kliashchou, Chief Technology Officer at Regula.

DeterTech, the official site security partner of Brentford FC, is proud to support an accredited Safe Haven established by the club at Gtech Community Stadium, reinforcing both organisations’ commitment to community safety and wellbeing. Located in Brentford FC’s west stand security hub on Lionel Road South, it will provide support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. It will be managed by trained security staff and is open to any member of the public who feels vulnerable or needs help. Contacting emergency services Safe Havens are dedicated spaces of support that help people with their onward journey by providing various forms of assistance, such as contacting emergency services, phone charging facilities, calling a taxi, or reaching friends and family. Accredited by the Safer Business Network, shops, cafes, pubs, libraries, and other venues can also become a registered Safe Haven. “Our purpose at DeterTech is always to bring greater peace of mind to people and communities, every day. The Safe Haven campaign is one of many powerful examples of how we put that into action,” said Sarah Craig, Chief Marketing Officer at DeterTech. Various forms of assistance Brentford’s chief executive Jon Varney said: “We are a club that sits in the heart of the community and it is vital that we are able to support our fans and those living in the local area. In creating a Safe Haven space at our stadium, we are ensuring there is help available for anyone at any time of day.” “This builds on the wide-ranging work we are doing with fans and partners as part of our continued commitment to create inclusive and safer environments for women and girls, not just on a matchday but everyday.” Crime prevention sessions As the official site security partner of Brentford FC, this initiative is another way for DeterTech to assist Brentford FC’s commitment to fan safety and community wellbeing, following other events such as crime prevention sessions and free bike marking for fans on matchdays. Drawing upon DeterTech’s experience in risk management and deterrent technologies, DeterTech will support the Safe Haven team with resources and guidance to help Brentford FC deliver a safe and inclusive experience for all.