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Mobile access unlocks a new way to work and a whole range of possibilities

In business and personal life today, digitalization increasingly means moving to mobile. Mobile-first is becoming the norm across regions and industries. In Western Europe alone, there are 459 million active smartphones and only a fraction of these are currently used for digital access. This is changing fast: one projection suggests mobile credentials’ CAGR of more than 22% over the next 7 years.

By: Thomas Schulz, Director & Head of Marketing ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA

E-mail: thomas.schulz@assaabloy.com

This rapid growth seems only natural: in terms of access management, it is more secure and more convenient, for both building users and managers, when the smartphone also becomes a key. From an organizational perspective, digitalization helps to maximize the productivity of existing assets. By adopting a mobile ethos, in access and beyond, businesses increase convenience for their users and the security of their buildings. It is easy to understand why mobile is, according to one analyst, “the dominant trend in access control”.

Making life easier and enabling mobility for users and facility managers

Using mobile keys for access helps building users to act faster, work smarter and collaborate better within teams. Similar convenience benefits have already made banks, travel agents, food delivery services and more into mobile-first sectors. With mobile access, staff and visitors no longer need to carry or keep track of keys, fobs, badges or cards. The convenience of replacing plastic key-cards with secure mobile keys is obvious.

From an access management perspective, mobile access enables the secure movement of people into and through premises – and simultaneously streamlines daily work for security managers. Mobile credentials are also more secure. Phones are almost never loaned to anyone else, and are harder for a user to lose. Mobile credentials are easier for security managers to amend or de-authorize than a mechanical key. Changes to anyone’s access permissions can be made over the air, without any need for dedicated readers or asking a user to check-in their credential.

Furthermore, when a security administrator cancels a mobile key, it vanishes immediately. No more time-wasting handover meetings are scheduled when a tenancy, employment contract or authorized visit ends. Remote access management via smartphone and a secure cloud saves facilities staff time and hassle. They work smarter and more flexibly, benefitting both their well-being and their organization’s productivity.

“At ASSA ABLOY, we were very quick to spot the benefits of mobile access for all kinds of stakeholders,” explains David Moser, SVP & Head of Digital Access Solutions at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA. “So many of our access innovations provide the option to make access not only digital, but also mobile.”

Broad range of mobile access solutions from ASSA ABLOY

ASSA ABLOY offers customers a choice of mobile access solutions, both within complete digital access systems and via devices which plug seamlessly into an existing security management solution. Multi-residential housing is just one sector, among many, where the advantages of mobile access have seen its rapid growth. Fast-growing build-to-rent housing provider Becorp is just one that has benefited from its convenience. For a planned new development in Barcelona, they sought a digital alternative to mechanical keys. Becorp realised that a keyless solution would save property management time, which is often spent handling hundreds of physical keys. The burden on staff is especially great when properties are newly occupied or vacated, a regular occurrence in large build-to-rent complexes.

Residents instead use secure mobile keys in their own SMARTair Openow® app. “Physical key management for any large development puts severe pressure on operational costs,” explains Becorp’s Xavier Casals. “Choosing SMARTair wireless locks and mobile management via Openow helps us to minimize them.”

“We have several more mobile access solutions, providing customers with a choice to meet their exact needs,” adds David Moser. “CLIQ® Connect is a mobile extension to ASSA ABLOY’s CLIQ programmable key access solution. A keyholder no longer needs to update access rights physically in person. Their system administrator simply opens the CLIQ Web Manager – from anywhere – and updates it. The key-holder makes an encrypted connection between their programmable BLE key and the app on the mobile to instantly update permissions from the cloud.”

“Yet another mobile solution, CLIQ Go, is designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It offers easy access management from a mobile. CLIQ Go makes it simple even for non-specialists to manage their own access, digitally and from the palm of their hand.”

Adding mobile access to an existing EAC solution or new application

Mobile access is also built-in to ASSA ABLOY digital access devices designed for seamless integration with existing systems and hardware. Battery powered Aperio® locks are compatible with both Bluetooth and NFC mobile wireless protocols. Aperio mobile access offers Seos®-based, class-leading cryptography and authentication, plus unrivalled privacy protection.

Utilizing HID Seos® technology, Aperio also supports employee badge in Apple Wallet, enabling quick, convenient entry to doors, cabinets, lockers, server racks and more equipped with Aperio wireless devices. ABLOY CUMULUS is another keyless access solution, also part of the suite of connected Digital Access Solutions from ASSA ABLOY. With ABLOY CUMULUS, tailored access rights are issued directly on a user’s smartphone. Their personalized, encrypted mobile credential unlocks any authorized opening. In addition, the revolutionary CUMULUS Controller brings mobile unlocking via Bluetooth to any electric or electronic lock – from any brand.

“We engineered CUMULUS to help businesses increase their mobile capability to really get their access ready for what’s ahead,” explains David Moser. “It is completely customizable, with APIs and SDKs for smartphone app development. Mobile becomes part of their business”

“Like all our mobile access solutions, we hope it helps our customers to realize new possibilities in whatever they do.”

To learn more about living mobility with Mobile Access Solutions from ASSA ABLOY, visit https://www.assaabloy.com/group/emeia/campaigns/mobile-access

 

 

 

IDIS introduces new VAI systems with advanced AI video analytics

IDIS has announced a new generation of VAI video analytics systems, available in 24-, 48-, and 96-channel versions. The VA-2400, VA-4800, and VA-9600 models are designed for projects requiring advanced analytics and real-time processing of large volumes of video streams. The systems support up to 48, 96, and 192 AI resources respectively and are powered by the Vaidio platform developed in cooperation with VAIBS. The solution offers a wide range of object and event recognition functions, improving incident detection and video analysis. Compatibility with IDLA technology further expands analytical capabilities within the IDIS ecosystem.

The devices are available in a 2U rack-mount chassis or a desktop tower version, simplifying deployment across different installation types. The systems are NDAA compliant, making them suitable for projects with higher regulatory requirements. According to the company, the new series delivers a more flexible and scalable AI solution for security operations and monitoring of large facilities.

Detailed technical specifications of the individual models, including AI processing capacities and installation options, are available at: https://lnkd.in/enyuUK5X

An overview of the VAI (Video AI) platform, analytics functions, detection types, and integrations can be found at: https://lnkd.in/eTnX22Jn

Ruijie recommends Reyee solutions for public Wi-Fi in small business environments

Ruijie Reyee presents a solution for easy deployment of public Wi-Fi networks designed for small business locations such as shops, kiosks, and hospitality venues. The company says the goal is to provide a stable and affordable internet connection without complex installation or lengthy configuration.

The core of the solution is the RG-RAP6262(G) outdoor access point with Wi-Fi 6 support, intended to cover larger outdoor areas and spaces around the premises. The device features omnidirectional antennas, IP68 protection, and an operating temperature range from –30 to 65 °C, making it suitable for harsh weather conditions. For indoor networking, the RG-EW1300G gigabit mesh router enables full building coverage and cloud-based network management. The system uses Reyee Mesh technology, allowing multiple devices to be connected into a single network without additional cabling.

The solution is particularly suited for small retail stores and restaurants that want to provide guests with reliable internet access and additional digital services. Ruijie notes that the devices offer easy installation, stable performance, and long service life, simplifying the launch and expansion of public Wi-Fi services.

Salto: DBolt Touch Outdoor is a new smart lock for exterior residential doors

Salto has expanded its smart lock portfolio with the launch of the DBolt Touch Outdoor, designed to provide secure keyless access for exterior residential doors. The IP55-rated electronic lock is built for doors exposed to outdoor conditions, both in new construction and retrofit projects. The solution extends smart access—previously limited to interior apartment doors—to building entrance doors as well.

The model uses Salto SVN, BLUEnet, and JustIN Mobile technologies and supports both cloud-based and stand-alone operation. It is fully compatible with the Salto Space, Salto KS, and Salto Homelok platforms, unifying access management, security, and the resident experience within a single system.

The lock communicates wirelessly with the building’s smart ecosystem and allows remote issuance, revocation, and management of digital keys.

The battery-powered device features a touchscreen keypad and supports multiple credentials, including RFID cards, key fobs, NFC, and mobile credentials. Installation is simplified as it fits standard deadbolt preparations without drilling and can be mounted in just a few minutes. According to Salto, the DBolt Touch Outdoor enables residents to use a smartphone or card instead of a traditional key, enhancing both security and convenience in modern residential living.

 

Kamir launches its training season with a fire detection systems event

Kamir opened this year’s cycle of professional events by organizing an educational meeting dedicated to fire detection and fire alarm systems. The event was held in cooperation with partners Apollo Fire Detectors and Advanced, focusing on solutions that today represent a key segment of technical protection across numerous facilities and projects.

Through expert presentations, equipment demonstrations, and hands-on work with demo panels, participants had the opportunity to learn about new products and technical solutions in the field of fire detection. Special emphasis was placed on practical system applications and the exchange of experience between manufacturers and installers.

Lectures were delivered by Alexandra Hristova, Malte Pollmann, Timur Karakas, and Joel Costa, who answered questions and took part in professional discussions with attendees. Kamir emphasized that open communication and direct contact with experts add particular value to such meetings. Strong interest and active participation confirmed the importance of fire protection for the professional community. The company thanked all participants for attending and announced further training sessions and events throughout 2026.

Synology and Wasabi simplify data protection with integrated cloud backup

Synology and Wasabi Technologies have announced a strategic partnership aimed at simplifying enterprise data protection and providing more flexible and cost-effective options for data storage and recovery. Thanks to native integration with Synology’s ActiveProtect line of backup appliances, users can now directly extend their backup strategies to Wasabi Hot Cloud Storage, improving data security without added complexity, new management consoles, or unpredictable costs.

The solution allows IT teams to protect mission-critical workloads from a single platform and use Wasabi as an S3-compatible destination for off-site copies, long-term retention, and immutable backup. Wasabi is available directly within ActiveProtect Manager, enabling organizations to quickly deploy off-site backups while maintaining full visibility across on-premises and cloud environments.

The partnership comes at a time of increasing ransomware threats, regulatory requirements, and data growth, prompting businesses to seek more resilient and easier-to-operate backup solutions.

The integration supports modern protection models such as the 3-2-1-1-0 approach, ensuring data availability and recoverability in the event of an incident. The system provides unified backup management for on-premises, SaaS, and cloud resources, helping prevent tampering and catastrophic data loss. According to the companies, the combination of centralized administration, immutable storage, and predictable costs enables organizations to manage data more securely and at scale.

 

VIVOTEK upgrades VORTEX platform with generative AI and personal safety detection

VIVOTEK has announced major enhancements to its VORTEX cloud platform, introducing the generative AI-powered “Think Alert” feature and new personal safety detection capabilities. The upgrades are aimed at public- and private-sector organizations seeking faster risk response, greater operational resilience, and more efficient security management. At the same time, the cloud ecosystem has been expanded through integration with multiple access control service providers, unifying video surveillance and access control within a single operational interface.

The platform is designed as a centralized, scenario-based security command center focused on the user. The new Think Alert function uses generative artificial intelligence and a visual language model, allowing users to define alarm rules using plain text without complex configuration.

The system automatically recognizes predefined situations and immediately triggers alerts, significantly reducing response time and enabling earlier intervention. Examples include detecting smoking in restricted areas, the presence of animals in designated spaces, or vehicles entering a loading zone. In this way, searching, analyzing, and identifying footage becomes as simple as typing a message, shifting security from reactive review to proactive intelligence.

The platform also introduces personal safety protection features such as detection of protective equipment, including helmets and reflective vests, as well as fall or loss-of-consciousness detection. The solution enables continuous monitoring and incident logging, reduces workplace risks, and accelerates emergency response in factories, retail environments, public transportation, and social care facilities.

Through integration with ACaaS partners Brivo, Kisi, and PDK, administrators can correlate access control events with video footage and simplify investigations and remote management. The company states that VORTEX, as a unified cloud platform, combines AI applications, flexible deployment, and a partner ecosystem, representing a step toward scalable, proactive, and sustainable security management.

 

SALTO WECOSYSTEM invests in Portugal’s ATZ to strengthen smart access innovation

SALTO WECOSYSTEM has announced a strategic investment in Portuguese door hardware manufacturer ATZ aimed at accelerating innovation and strengthening supply chain resilience. Based in Águeda, ATZ has more than 35 years of experience in the design and manufacturing of locks and related hardware and is recognized for quality and advanced locking solutions. Its portfolio includes more than 9,000 products, such as door levers, mortise locks, door pulls, cabinet hardware, and accessories.

The acquisition of a majority stake highlights the importance of mechanical components in electronic locks, as they directly influence product quality, certification, and adaptability to various standards and door types. SALTO WECOSYSTEM says combining ATZ’s manufacturing capabilities with its in-house development will accelerate the creation of more competitive and innovative products.
“This investment allows us to combine ATZ’s mechanical expertise with our own development, further strengthening collaboration and speeding up the development of new solutions,” said Marc Gomez, CEO of SALTO WECOSYSTEM.

He added that the partnership will bring critical production capabilities closer to the organization and reduce the risk of disruptions in the global supply chain.

The move is also expected to ensure more stable availability of key components for electronic locking solutions.
ATZ representatives say the partnership marks an important milestone after years of cooperation and opens the door for joint development of new components. SALTO WECOSYSTEM adds that the investment confirms its long-term commitment to smart access and electronic locking technologies while increasing value for customers worldwide.

Aikom: Wireless Network Achieves Fiber-Like Performance in Challenging Mountain Terrain

Italian operator Connetta has demonstrated that speeds comparable to fiber connectivity can be achieved using advanced wireless infrastructure, even in the demanding geography of the Apennine mountains. Active in three provinces and serving more than 3,500 customers, the company upgraded its network with support from Aikom Technology and solutions from Cambium Networks. Although FTTC and FTTH networks exist in the area, natural barriers and complex terrain made fiber deployment difficult, so the goal was to reach similar performance with faster implementation.

By introducing ePMP 3000 and Force 300 devices, the operator increased the number of users per sector and improved network stability, while the transition to the ePMP 4000 platform enabled speeds of up to 300 Mbps per user, comparable to fiber connections. The upgrade was carried out gradually, as the new radio units are compatible with existing CPE devices, allowing modernization without service interruption. The compact form factor also simplified installations, including those at hard-to-reach sites.

Users gained higher bandwidth, lower latency, and reliable operation even in adverse weather conditions, with centralized monitoring via the cnMaestro platform for configuration, monitoring, and remote maintenance. Company director Antonio Rosa noted that the operator can now compete with fiber networks even in areas where their deployment is challenging. The project also expanded the service portfolio through the Cambium Protection Pack, providing advanced firewall, SD-WAN, and network service management. The new architecture combines primary connectivity, wireless backup, business Wi-Fi, and cybersecurity protection within a single system, while the network continues to expand and legacy equipment is gradually being replaced.

Azitrend Announces Security Solutions for Energy Projects at Bucharest Exhibition

Azitrend has announced its participation in the international trade fair Green Energy Expo & Romenvirotec 2026, which will take place from March 3 to 5 at the Romexpo exhibition center in Bucharest. The presentation will focus on security solutions for energy projects such as photovoltaic parks, hybrid systems, and energy storage systems (BESS). The company says it will demonstrate protection architectures tailored to the specific requirements of energy facilities, using artificial intelligence and advanced event processing.

The solutions include intelligent perimeter protection for solar and hybrid parks, integration of video analytics, thermal cameras, and radar into a unified system, as well as the GEF (Guard Events Flow) event management concept, enabling clear and correlated alarms in dispatch centers. This approach reduces false alarms and improves operational control.

The presented technology is designed for continuous 24/7 operation at large-scale sites, with straightforward implementation and integration into existing projects, aiming to provide better risk control without unnecessary system complexity. Azitrend invites partners, system integrators, and investors in energy projects to visit booth 114 and learn more about solutions for protecting energy facilities.