VIVOTEK has entered into a new partnership with Kabob to provide AI powered security services to the retail sectorImage courtesy of VIVOTEK

Recognising the growing demand from chain enterprises to boost operational efficiency through cloud security solutions, VIVOTEK has entered into a partnership with its AI-powered cloud surveillance platform, Vortex, and Kabob, a startup providing one-stop cloud management solutions for retail stores. This collaboration aims to revolutionise retail management, initially targeting the US, Japan and Taiwan markets, potentially benefiting over 450 chain brands and approximately 15,000 stores.

Kabob users can log in to the Vortex platform through their accounts to access unlimited device connections and user accounts with a simple subscription, enabling remote management of store surveillance, real-time operations monitoring and advanced AI-Powered insights. With Vortex, retailers can analyse crowd flow patterns, recognize vehicle license plates and refine marketing strategies to unlock new business opportunities.

Boosting retail security efficiency

Managing hundreds or even thousands of retail outlets simultaneously poses a significant challenge for chain enterprises. Vortex’s high versatility and robust security features are specifically designed for fast-paced business environments, offering smart management services for retail stores, shopping malls, and other venues requiring multi-site monitoring. Vortex’s flexible hybrid cloud architecture offers seamless integration with its cloud-native cameras for precise AI video analytics and anomaly alerts. For retailers using existing network cameras, Vortex enables cloud connectivity via VIVOTEK’s network video recorders, facilitating real-time remote management and event detection. This ensures store safety, smooth operations and maximum cost-effectiveness and security performance.

Vortex incorporates advanced encryption, secure network transmission, and privacy management measures to safeguard user data and video information, including end-to-end encryption, Single Sign-On (SSO) and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Moreover, Vortex offers up to 10 years of warranty and flexible subscription licensing, all presented with compliance with the US National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and Trade Agreements Act (TAA).

Beyond security, Vortex leverages its AI technology to identify hotspots with high foot traffic and recognise license plates of frequent visitors. By integrating these capabilities with in-store marketing activities, Vortex boosts customer interactions, increases sales and enhances customer satisfaction.

Verkada, a leader in cloud-based physical security, has appointed Marc Peston as General Manager of Northern Europe. Peston will lead Verkada’s go-to-market and sales operations in Benelux, the Nordics, and the Baltics.

“Demand is growing worldwide for Verkada’s easy-to-use, cloud-based physical security solutions. In Europe, our bookings have grown more than 360% in just the past year,” said Eric Salava, Chief Revenue Officer at Verkada. “Marc’s deep relationships in Northern Europe will put us in an even better position to serve our customers as they adopt our technology to create safer, smarter spaces.”

Peston joins Verkada after nearly a decade at Qualtrics where he held several senior roles in sales and operations. At Qualtrics, Peston drove the company’s expansion into Australia and Southeast Asia before leading the company’s efforts in Benelux.

“Verkada plays an important role in protecting the lives of millions of people around the world every day,” said Marc Peston, General Manager of Northern Europe at Verkada. “I’m looking forward to expanding this impact in Northern Europe, and helping more organisations across the region protect their people and places with privacy-respecting solutions.”

Verkada is growing rapidly in Europe. In the past year, Verkada expanded operations into Germany, Austria, and Switzerland (DACH) and increased its headcount in Europe by 50%. Leading organisations in Northern Europe trust Verkada as their physical security layer, including Rapha Racing, Toychamp, and Canada Goose.

Parks Associates’ new study, Smart Properties: The Value of IoT for MDUs, a survey of 300 MDU (multidwelling unit) property managers and owners, finds many multifamily residents and staff now expect their property to have an electronic access control system.

Of those owners/managers planning to deploy, upgrade, or replace an access control system in the next five years, according to Parks’ survey, 62% plan to do so to meet the expectations of their residents and staff. While improving operational efficiency is a key goal for multifamily properties, properties see a strong value in access control solutions’ core mission of enhancing community safety and security, both in terms of meeting resident demand and in preventing adverse events.

The report, “Smart Properties: The Value of IoT for MDUs”, compares top value propositions for smart apartment and IoT platforms and devices and quantifies the return on investment through operational efficiencies, increased rental rates, and decreased resident turnover.

“Companies’ major drivers for deploying access control are safety-related, both enhancing safety and security in the community as well as promoting the perception of safety among residents and staff,” said Kristen Hanich, Research Director, Parks Associates. “Providing staff access to residential units is another key driver and a core component of how these systems’ effectiveness is measured.”

The study also notes that MDU owners and operators are keenly interested in deploying tested IoT systems, with nearly 90% reporting plans on deploying, upgrading, or replacing tested smart building solutions in the next 12 months. Along with electronic access control systems, property video surveillance, smart thermostats, and smart irrigation controls lead in terms of imminent interest and demand.

“Several years of high interest rates led to a lull in new construction, with new technology adoption becoming increasingly prominent in retrofits,” Hanich said. “With historic amounts of new inventory hitting the market across both 2024 and 2025, existing properties will need to look towards new amenities for residents or be prepared to cut their prices to compete.”

Prosero has apppointed Jussi Virtanen as new Country Manager in Finland, thereby taking an important step for the group’s continued development and expansion in the Finnish market.

After starting its Finnish operations in 2020, Prosero has expanded to include 17 branches, with a local presence in over 30 locations and more than 450 employees.

The organisation in Finland has been led by Patrik Andersson and Jyri Aho, who have also served as managers for two of the group’s larger branches: Arvolukko Oy and Avain Asema Oy. Now Prosero will strengthen its team with Jussi Virtanen as Country Manager for Finland.

Jussi has substantial experience of leadership and business development in companies with a strong focus on development and growth. With his extensive knowledge of the security market, Jussi will be a great addition to Prosero, and together with the Finnish organisation, he will play a central role in Prosero’s growth journey.

Patrik Andersson and Jyri Aho will continue as regional managers and branch managers for Arvolukko Oy and Avain Asema Oy. Patrik, who has been on the team since Prosero’s debut on the Finnish market, looks forward to working with Jussi.

“It’s been a fantastic journey, leading Prosero into Finland together with Jyri, and seeing how the group has developed and expanded,” says Patrik Andersson. “Now, we’re strengthening our team even more, to take the next steps in our development, and I look forward to continuing as a Regional Manager in Prosero and Branch Manager for Arvolukko. Together, we’ll keep leading and developing the group to reach the next level.”

“I’m so happy to be joining the Prosero team,” says Jussi Virtanen. “Prosero’s development in Finland has been most impressive, and I’m convinced that my experience from the security industry and previous work with development-orientated companies will contribute to continued successes. Together, as a strong organisation, we can develop our branches and bolster their position as valued leaders in their local markets, while we also increase our cooperation with customers throughout Finland.”

“With Jussi as Country Manager, we’re gaining a strong, experienced leader with excellent knowledge of the security market,” notes Anders Uddfors, CEO of Prosero Security Group. “Most important, however, is Jussi’s proven leadership capability. We think is a perfect fit for Prosero’s decentralised model, which combines local presence and short decision paths with customers and employees with the competence, stability, and developmental muscle of a large group,” Uddfors adds.

BCD, a leader in purpose-built video recording and storage solutions, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Founded in November 1999, BCD began as an IT-centric reseller building computer and server solutions for Fortune 500 companies. After discovering there was a need for more than just financial data servers in 2008, BCD made the shift from IT to IP and entered the security industry.

Over the past 25 years, the company has grown into a trusted partner for security integrators across the world and now has a footprint spanning over 235,000 recording appliances, storing data for over 4 million cameras in more than 97 countries. As a leading OEM partner of Dell Technologies, BCD is proud to work alongside industry-leading innovators like Dell, Intel, NVIDIA, Alcatel-Lucent Enterprises and many more.

“Reaching this milestone is a testament to the dedication of our talented team, the trust of our customers, and the support of our partners,” said Jim Gross, CEO of BCD. “We’re proud of the impact we’ve made and excited for what the future holds as we continue to push the boundaries of innovation.”

As BCD looks to the future, the company remains dedicated to the core values it was founded on – proactive response, white-glove service, and passion to deliver trusted solutions. With the intent to expand their purpose-built solutions outside of video data storage for the security industry, BCD remains excited that the next 25 years will see more growth and innovation than the last.

Dallmeier is expanding its product portfolio with the Picoline. With this new entry-level camera, Dallmeier offers a compact and cost-effective solution for applications that require day and night recording with the highest resolution (IR mode). Whether for use in an environment with difficult lighting conditions or where space is limited, the Picoline promises high-quality results.

The Picoline combines high image quality with up to five MP resolution, a wide range of cyber security features and AI analytics in a compact surface mount housing. The small form factor enables installation in confined spaces on ceilings or walls and is powered via PoE. As an all-rounder, the entry-level camera is designed for a wide range of applications.

Domera operating system

Security is a top priority for the Picoline series. Thanks to the closed Linux operating system Domera OS, users benefit from extensive security functions. Regular external penetration tests, monitoring and maintenance ensure that the software components are always up to date with the latest security standards.

Security updates throughout the entire life cycle

In addition to functional updates for at least five years with the option to extend, Dallmeier provides security updates for relevant CVE vulnerabilities that have become known (subject to technical feasibility) for the entire duration of the software maintenance.

Efficient surveillance with AI Edgeanalytics

With the optional “Basic AI Object Classification”, the Picoline can detect and classify objects such as people or vehicles – regardless of movements in the background. AI Edgeanalytics applications, such as “Loitering Detection”, “Intrusion Detection” and “People Counting”, allow users to analyse and evaluate the events that are relevant to them.

Analysis via any ONVIF-compliant VMS and control of IoT devices

The camera series is ONVIF compatible, so users can easily integrate it with Dallmeier client software and other ONVIF compatible VMS systems. Event messages can be sent by email or used to control IoT devices via MQTT and HTTPS.

High image quality even in challenging lighting conditions

The cameras are equipped with a High Dynamic Range (HDR) function to optimise the capture of high-contrast scenes with very bright and very dark areas. Each frame is captured with two special settings that are combined in real time to produce a balanced result. The resulting video stream offers significantly more detail in both light and dark areas and is optically very similar to how the human eye perceives them.

Optional Edge recording

It is possible to record two video streams with different settings at the same time with Edgerecording on an integrated SD card of up to 1Tb. Triggered by an Edgeanalytics event, recording allows critical moments to be captured with adjustable lead and lag times. In addition, the video stream can be transferred to a recording system for permanent backup.

I-Pro has added 19 new models to its Aero PTZ camera line featuring enhanced durability and edge AI processing. Built for extreme weather and environmental conditions, the new, heavy-duty Aero PTZ cameras support up to 4K resolution and feature AI-driven analytics.

“The combination of extreme weather resistance and advanced AI-based analytics, like advanced auto-tracking to ensure clear visibility and accurate data in any environment, sets this PTZ apart,” said Gerard Figols, Chief Product Officer at I-Pro. “The Aero PTZ line now incorporates edge computing technology, aligning with our goal of bringing the advantages of AI everywhere. This makes it the most robust model on the market in terms of reliability and analytic power, capable of proactively securing mission-critical environments under the most extreme conditions such as hurricanes and cyclones.”

With a zoom range of up to 40x, the shock-resistant, water-proof Aero PTZ cameras are IK10, MIL-STD-167-1A, and IP66/68 rated for uninterrupted video protection during extreme weather conditions. They are also resistant to heavy salt corrosion (C5-M). The camera can operate reliably and clearly in temperatures from -50 to 65°C (-58 to149°F) with I-Pro’s newly developed transparent glass heater. As extreme weather phenomena become more common, I-Pro is developing products to meet the challenge. The Aero PTZ includes a robust pan and tilt motor mechanism that ensures accurate movement in winds up to 270km/h (168 mph), exceeding the Saffir-Simpson wind speed rating for category five cyclones and hurricanes.

The Aero PTZ is equipped with AI-based auto-tracking to keep persons and vehicles in focus, even in complete darkness, up to 560 metres (1,837 feet) with IR illumination. “The Aero PTZ features the longest nighttime IR illumination among PTZs in the industry. In addition to IR, white-light illumination can be turned on to deter intruders and preserve colour information when required,” adds Figols.

I-Pro’s open AI development platform allows multiple AI applications to be installed as needed for the operational environment, including third-party apps. With up to three simultaneous AI apps on the 4K model and up to two simultaneous AI apps on the 2MP models, a wide range of customised solutions are available. For example, when installed at a shipping port, a salt-resistant Aero PTZ could run the latest Vaxtor OCR application to read shipping container numbers as they pass through the port. At the same time, fire and smoke could be detected using a Noema detection app.

For maximum cyber security resilience, the cameras incorporate signed firmware, brute-force protection, and FIPS 140-2 level 3 compliance with a secure element chip to safeguard against cyber threats.

Easy and flexible installation options

The Aero PTZ is designed for hassle-free setup.

• It features easy kitting, cable connectors, and a newly developed mount bracket that supports one-person installation. Flexible power options support 100-240V AC or 24V AC/DC power for virtually any installation environment.
• Multiple resolutions and illuminators (IR light, white light) plus a range of body colors are also available to meet diverse operational needs.
• Support for additional industry standards includes NEMA TS2 (Traffic), MIL STD-810-G (US DoD), IEC 62236-4, and EN 50121-4 (Railway)

A new report published by Marketsandmarkets on the Smart Stadiums market estimates this sector to grow from USD 19.55 billion in 2024 to USD 41.68 billion by 2029 at a impressive  CAGR of 16.3 %.

A smart stadium refers to an arena that utilises latest technology in perfecting fans, operators and other stakeholders experiences. Instances of its facilities include dynamic digital signage, smart parking, and automated concession stands. Such innovations streamline operations, reduce the waiting time, and make attending more personalised and engaging. Data analytics enables Smart Stadiums to optimise seating arrangements, improve crowd flow, and reduce emergency response times.

Furthermore, the use of renewable energy sources, as well as effective waste management measures, reduce the venue’s carbon footprint. Overall, Smart Stadiums can substantially benefit organisations, including increased revenue, enhanced fan satisfaction, and improved operational efficiency. For instance, the AT&T Stadium utilises advanced analytics to optimise seating layouts, while Wembley Stadium leverages technology to streamline operations and enhance the spectator experience. Similarly, the Johan Cruyff Arena employs data-driven insights to boost fan engagement and operational effectiveness.

Enhanced fan engagement

Digital content management holds the highest growth in the Smart Stadiums market during the forecast period because it is the most central role in enhancing fan engagement and experience. This solution includes audio and video content, digital signage, mobile and web content, which help to deliver real-time updates, instant replays, as well as interactive content to the fans. The demand for more personalised and immersive experiences leads to the adoption of digital content management systems.

The growing use of mobile devices and high-speed internet will also further propel growth in seamless content delivery. Furthermore, effective monetisation through targeted advertising and exclusive digital offerings would also have a considerable impact in further driving its rapid expansion. With the objective of stadiums to attain a better, more connected environment for spectators, digital content management appears as an important aspect sufficient enough for driving strong growth in the Smart Stadiums market.

Seamless ticketing management

Ticketing management solutions are anticipated to capture the largest market size in the sector of Smart Stadiums during the forecast period. This is primarily due to the growing requirements for smooth and seamless ticketing processes. Smart Stadiums are taking up digital ticketing through mobile applications thereby, leading to an increased facility to switch, purchase, and validate tickets as opposed to printed tickets, thus minimizing waiting time in case of entrance to the grounds. For instance, during matches such as the UEFA Champions League, hundreds of thousands can gain admission to the stadium grounds without any complication, which means better services for fans. In addition, it offers attendance and preference statistics, which allows the managers to optimise the seating and tailor marketing programmes. The convenience and efficiency offered by these ticketing management solutions are key factors driving their dominance in the market.

Stadium and public security maintain the highest share

Stadium and public security solutions are expected to maintain the highest market share in the Smart Stadiums market during the forecast period because stadium and public security solutions are essential for ensuring the safety and security of visitors, staff, and players. These solutions include advanced surveillance systems, facial recognition, biometric scanning, and metal detection, which are especially crucial for avoiding unauthorised access and controlling crowd surges. Increasing the number of mass events demands strong security measures. In addition, utilising AI and IoT technologies will improve real-time monitoring and threat detection capabilities, and these solutions have become essential to modern stadiums. It ensures a safe environment and boosts fan confidence and overall event experience, all of which contribute to the higher market share for stadium and public security solutions.

Market players

The major vendors covered in the Smart Stadiums market include Cisco, IBM, Ericsson, Johnson Controls, Schneider Electric, NEC, Huawei, Intel, Fujitsu, NTT Corporation, Honeywell, Extreme Networks, Lumen Technologies, NXP Semiconductors, VIX Technology, Hawk-eye, Atos, Verizon, Tech Mahindra, AT&T, Vodafone, T-Mobile and Telefonica. These players have adopted various growth strategies, such as partnerships, agreements and collaborations, new product launches, enhancements, and acquisitions to expand their footprint in the Smart Stadiums market.

I-Pro Co., Ltd. has released a new line of High Zoom Bullet cameras designed to deliver exceptional long-range coverage with advanced edge AI capabilities. Equipped with powerful zoom and IR LED technologies, the new cameras promise unrivalled precision for long-distance monitoring across various environments, such as highways, car parks, bridges, ports, and stadiums.

The new lineup includes 10x and 30x zoom options, complemented by long-range (up to 250m/820ft) infrared (IR) LED capabilities for optimal performance in low-light or nighttime conditions. Available in 2MP, 5MP, and 4K resolutions, the range offers 20 new models across the X- and S-series.

“The High Zoom Bullet camera’s superior performance, combined with AI-powered analytics and an industry-leading 200-metre IR distance, sets a new standard for long-range security monitoring in mission-critical environments, including city surveillance, critical infrastructure, and transportation hubs,” said Gerard Figols, Chief Product Officer at I-Pro.

AI-driven object detection

Featured on X-series models, the powerful Ambarella CV52 SoC incorporates nine pre-installed edge applications, enabling enhanced object detection, AI on-site learning, and smarter incident detection in all conditions. With its open AI development platform for third parties, I-Pro provides the flexibility to tailor the system to meet specific operational needs.

X-series models also include the ability to add AI analytics to non-AI network cameras, including cameras from other manufacturers. Each X-series camera can collect AI metadata from up to three additional non-AI camera streams, giving advanced situational awareness to legacy cameras in potentially difficult-to-reach areas.

I-Pro Active Guard

When paired with the award-winning I-Pro Active Guard intelligent search application, a wealth of metadata describing the unique attributes of humans and vehicles is seamlessly delivered to popular Video Management Systems (VMS) like Milestone, Genetec, Video Insight, and others. This not only allows deep forensic search from edge-based AI analytics but also enables real-time proactive monitoring of important events that require immediate attention.

LPR-Optimised models

Four LPR-optimised models are available for capturing plates at high speeds (up to 130 km/h) during the day or night. An advanced Long Wavelength Pass Filter (LPF) enhances plate capture in various lighting conditions, such as reducing glare from vehicle headlights at night, ensuring high accuracy even in challenging lighting conditions. Vaxtor’s LPR software is bundled with the camera and licensed separately.

“It’s the first time we are launching a third-party application bundled with our powerful edge computing cameras. The native integration of Vaxtor with I-Pro Active Guard demonstrates how our hardware and third-party software partners bring unparalleled value to mission-critical applications like city surveillance and traffic monitoring,” added Figols.

For the first time, the Teledyne Flir Siras professional uncrewed aerial system (UAS) will be available across Canada. This is being made possible through Rocky Mountain Unmanned Systems (RMUS).

The Siras professional drone is designed for professional missions, including industrial and utilities inspection, firefighting, law enforcement, and search and rescue. Canadian drone professionals can now reap the benefits of a professional UAS specifically engineered for data security, performance, and affordability.

“As demand heightens for sophisticated UAS solutions that include expert programmes and support, expanding into Canada with unmatched support and distribution through RMUS, an existing partner in the USA, is a natural progression,” said Mike Walters, Vice President, Teledyne FLIR. “Teledyne Flir and RMUS have joined forces in Canada to provide unmanned visible-thermal innovation to Canada via the Siras drone. It is ideal for visual inspection and decision support across industrial, energy, and emergency response.”

RMUS is a leading unmanned solutions vendor in North America, providing vetted equipment sales, online and in-person education programs, and professional and technical support services. For the past decade, RMUS has pioneered innovation and progress in the uncrewed systems industry, helping set up programmes including drones, robots, high-end sensors, cameras, artificial intelligence (AI) software, and counter UAS systems.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Teledyne Flir to bring cutting-edge drone solutions to the Canadian market,” said Kevin Toderel, General Manager, RMUS Canada. “We are committed to delivering exceptional quality, reliability, and performance to our customers empowering businesses, organisations, and individuals to unlock the full potential of drone technology.”

Earlier this month, Teledyne Flir introduced the ITAR-free Vue TV128+ camera module, a high-performance, thermal-and-visible camera payload that will also be available in Canada. Purpose-built for Siras, it provides industry-leading thermal sensitivity for first responder missions and industrial inspections. The Vue TV128+ series pairs a 128x-zoom, 16MP visible camera with a performance-leading 640×512 resolution Flir Boson+ thermal camera within a quick-connect gimbal. The Vue TV128+ is available as part of a Siras drone bundle, or it can be purchased as a standalone payload option.