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.

Schlage, a pioneer in door hardware innovation for over a century, introduces the third limited-edition collection from Pin & TumblerTM A Studio by Schlage — The Aspect Collection. This collection innovates the interior door hardware market with bold, geometric designs that fuse solid forms with warmth and ease. Features Inspired by the design style of Soft Brutalism, the Aspect Collection features powerful lines and purposeful movement to create a dynamic visual effect.  From head on, the form has industrial simplicity, yet a shift of perspective reveals unexpected, sculptural angles, creating a subtle modern edge and adding premium style to residential interiors.  Design and innovation “True design innovation is about creating pieces that feel both intentional and effortless,” shared Heather Jacobson, product manager of Pin & Tumbler Studio. “With the Aspect Collection, we focused on achieving a bold but approachable impact. Each knob and lever is carefully designed to enhance a home's style while anchoring a room with a sense of inviting solidity." Craftsmanship Each element of an Aspect lever or knob is balanced by rich, intentional colors. The Aspect Trim has a Warm Charcoal finish that frames the form’s dynamic angles with organic solidity. A subdued Iron Red showcases the Aspect lever’s bold movement and sculptural shifts, while the Aspect knob is softened by the rich cream tones of Toasted Ivory.  The tactile warmth of each finish enhances the craftsmanship of the hardware and speaks to premium quality of the Schlage brand.  Hassle-free installation Leveraging Schlage’s unique 2-in-1 combined interior function, the Aspect Collection can be installed conveniently and easily for a hassle-free, do-it-yourself upgrade on standard interior doors, so homeowners can have versatile locking functionality based on the need for privacy and design in the space.  Evolving technology As the third release from Pin & Tumbler Studio, the Aspect Collection builds on Schlage’s legacy of bold innovation and thoughtful craftsmanship. Following the Mosaic Trim Collections and the Refined Finishes Collection, it brings added depth and versatility to the studio’s evolving design portfolio and continues the studio’s mission to accelerate the brand’s innovation pipeline with a focus on style, technology, ease and convenience.  Attendees of the 2026 International Builders’ Show (IBS) and 2026 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) are invited to experience the collection in person at the Schlage booth (#W4757) in Orlando, FL from February 17-19.

Schlage, America’s Most Trusted Lock Brand1 and pioneer in door hardware innovation for over a century, together with NterNow, a leading on-demand, self-guided tour software platform for single-family properties, are showcasing solutions in the Schlage booth at the 2026 International Builders’ Show (IBS) in Orlando.  NterNow recently joined Schlage as part of the Allegion portfolio – providing a first-ever opportunity at IBS 2026 for builders and show attendees to experience NterNow’s secure and convenient self- tour solution now backed by the industry-leading security experts at Schlage and Allegion. Expertise insight “Having NterNow join our portfolio allows us to expand the value we offer home builders in new and exciting ways,” said David Perozzi, general manager, Allegion Home. “In addition to the secure and innovative Schlage hardware and software solutions we provide for use in homes after closing, we can now deliver a trusted and seamless experience through NterNow during prospecting and selling. Specifically, helping builders showcasetheir homes with ease, leave a lasting first impression on prospective buyers and drive improved ROI.”  “Our mission at NterNow has always been to deliver the most secure and convenient experience for home builders and their prospective buyers through our effortless, self-tour solution,” said Barrett Davis, founder and now director of NterNow. “The expertise of both Schlage and Allegion will only help us drive our mission, improve our customer experiences offered and amplify the number of builders we can serve.”  Residential access solutions NterNow strengthens Schlage’s ability to serve single-family builders and creates a whole-lifecycle of residential access solutions with proptech-focused access technology combined with smart home security solutions for homeowners. By enabling secure, on‐demand access for new homes, this technology empowers prospective buyers to tour properties independently at any time, allowing builders and property managers to showcase homes without staffing limits and maximize visibility.  With NterNow, builders can experience: Secure and effortless self-guided tours 7 days a week Instant access to leads from tours to drive faster decisions and insights Operational efficiency with reduced on-site staffing and coordination Seamless, consistent brand experiences with white-labeled materials International Builders’ Show (IBS) Builders and Property Managers interested in learning more about the instant ROI of our secure and seamless  self-tour solution can visit the Schlage Booth W4757 at the 2026 International Builders’ Show (IBS), February 17 - 19 in Orlando, FL.

Centrios continues to expand its radically simplified access control platform with the introduction of the Centrios Exit Trim — purpose-built for doors that require an Exit Device. Exit Device openings are some of the most common in a commercial space. Front entrances. Rear exits. Stairwells. Employee-only corridors. They’re required for life safety, yet they’re often the last openings to be modernised because upgrading them feels complex. App-based management experience The Centrios Exit Trim changes that. It extends the Centrios ecosystem to these important openings, delivering the same clean, app-based management experience businesses already rely on. The Centrios Exit Trim can be ordered with the ASSA ABLOY ACCENTRA® 6100 Exit Device, one of the most widely recognised rim Exit Devices in commercial applications. The 6100 is commonly specified for retail, schools, offices, healthcare facilities, and multi-tenant buildings — applications where durability, code compliance, and everyday performance matter. The ASSA ABLOY ACCENTRA® 6100 can be configured to multiple finishes and bar lengths with fire rated options. For distributors and installers, this simplifies specification and procurement. Commercial exit hardware Built to Retrofit Real-World Exit Devices and Applications New construction isn’t the only opportunity to modernise access. The Centrios Exit Trim is also designed to retrofit a range of existing exit devices already installed in the field. These brands represent some of the most common commercial exit hardware in North America — particularly in small businesses, offices, daycares, and retail environments. This retrofit flexibility allows businesses to bring access control into existing openings without replacing every Public component on the door. It supports phased upgrades, budget-conscious improvements, and standardisation across multiple locations. Common commercial applications The Centrios Exit Trim supports a wide range of common commercial applications, including: Retail environments with high daily traffic Back-of-house employee entrances Emergency exits and stairwell doors Multi-tenant office buildings Side and rear access points Changing staff schedules These are openings that need to remain code-compliant while also being manageable, trackable, and adaptable to changing staff schedules. In October, Centrios introduced the Centrios Mortise Lock — expanding the platform to support mortise-prepped openings commonly found in higher-traffic commercial doors. In December, Centrios started shipping the Padlock — allowing access to be controlled on more than just a swinging door. With the addition of Exit Device compatibility, Centrios continues to broaden the types of commercial openings that can be under one simplified access control system. All door locks on the platform, including the newly launched Exit Trim, can accept Centrios Card and Fob credentials which are enabled by the Pro Plan. Enterprise-scale systems From Cylindrical to Mortise to Reader-controlled openings to Padlocks — and now Exit Devices — Centrios offers a comprehensive small-business-first access platform. Centrios is designed for small and growing businesses that need better control, cloud management, and visibility — but don’t want to navigate enterprise-scale systems. Because as businesses grow, open new locations, or update existing spaces, access control shouldn’t become more complicated. It should easily expand with you.

Accredit Solutions announces the launch of Accredit Visit, a purpose-built visitor and contractor management system designed to extend the operational control of high-stakes events into everyday stadium and venue visitor management. On match days, stadiums maintain rigorous security perimeters. Yet for the remaining 300+ days of the year, many still rely on manual processes or paper logs to manage site access. Accredit Visitor addresses this operational blind spot by applying consistent, event-grade access management to the contractors, corporate guests, media, and deliveries that access the venue daily. Access control platform Unlike generic visitor tools designed for office buildings or corporate lobbies, Accredit Visit is built on Accredit Solutions’ proven accreditation and access control platform. Operating as part of the Accredit OS ecosystem, it integrates seamlessly with the venue’s existing accreditation data, ensuring that everyday guests are managed with the same rigor, governance, and audit trails applied to the event-day workforce. "Venues don't lower their standards on match days, and they shouldn't have to accept lower standards on a Tuesday morning," said Peder Berg, CEO of Accredit Solutions. "With Accredit Visit, we are extending the 'pride of precision' that our clients are famous for into their daily operations. It gives the security and operation teams confidence that every person on site—whether it's a cup final, a concert, or a routine visit or maintenance day, is authorised, vetted, and accounted for." Ensuring compliance checks Key Capabilities of Accredit Visit: One Identity, One Standard: Operates on the same secure data layer as the core accreditation system, removing data silos between event and non-event days. Pre-Arrival Control: Allows hosts to pre-register guests and contractors, ensuring compliance checks are completed before arrival. Instant Access: QR and RFID badge issuance for seamless entry, replacing hand-written passes. Real-Time Visibility: Live dashboards provide security teams with a single view of exactly who is in the building and where they are zoned. Regulatory Compliance: Supports requirements associated with the UK Protect Duty (Martyn’s Law) by providing a robust, digital audit trail of all persons on site. For venue operators, Accredit Visit delivers immediate efficiency. Administrative burden is reduced through self-service check-ins, while security teams gain a single source of truth for all venue traffic.

ISS (Intelligent Security Systems), a global provider of video intelligence and data awareness solutions, announces the deployment of its SecurOS® Soffit pedestrian safety system in Kodiak, Alaska. This pilot project, launched by the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) on Rezanof Drive near Cope Street, marks the first installation of the Soffit in the state. The deployment addresses a critical safety challenge unique to the region: long periods of darkness in the fall. Alaska sees a notable increase in pedestrian crashes during September and October, when daylight hours decrease rapidly but the contrast of snow—which can make pedestrians more visible to drivers—is not yet present. To mitigate this risk, the state selected the SecurOS® Soffit for its ability to provide intelligent, dynamic illumination. Unnecessary light pollution Unlike standard streetlights that illuminate an entire area continuously, the Soffit utilises advanced video analytics to detect pedestrians as they approach a crosswalk. The system then directs a dynamic LED lighting array to "escort" the pedestrian across the street, illuminating only the person and their immediate path. This targeted approach increases driver awareness while minimizing unnecessary light pollution, making it an ideal solution for increasing visibility during Alaska's dark autumn months. "We are proud to partner with the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities on this critical initiative," said Aluisio Figueiredo, CEO of ISS. "This project underscores our mutual commitment to protecting pedestrians in challenging environments. By bringing intelligent visibility to Kodiak's roads, we hope to demonstrate how technology can save lives where traditional infrastructure may fall short." This installation follows the recent successful deployment of the SecurOS® Soffit in Dublin, Ohio, last month, further expanding the adoption of this AI-driven safety technology across the U.S.

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.