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Comcast Smart Solutions, a division of Comcast Corporation that specialises in smart technologies for businesses and communities, announced a collaboration with the City of Tucker, GA, an Atlanta suburb, to upgrade the lighting infrastructure on the city’s public trail and park system with a smart solution designed to enhance visibility and connectivity. The City of Tucker selected Comcast Smart Solutions to implement a fully-integrated video analytics, WiFi, and lighting solution into existing light fixtures along a portion of the city’s public trail that leads to Tucker Town Green, a recreational park. Lighting infrastructure The project aims to strengthen both security protocols and connectivity by providing advanced video analytics The project aims to strengthen both security protocols and connectivity by providing advanced video analytics and public WiFi access to the area. By leveraging existing lighting infrastructure, the city helped manage costs and simplified the process of bringing AI-powered monitoring and connectivity into this public space. The solution integrates multiple features, including video analytics, CCTV functionality, and a WiFi hotspot into single, multipurpose high-efficiency light fixtures from smart technology provider Juganu, all powered by Comcast Business’ Dedicated Internet. Real-time monitoring This installation enables real-time monitoring and provides insights into foot traffic and trail activity This installation enables real-time monitoring and provides insights into foot traffic and trail activity, while also providing public internet access. Together, these capabilities allow Tucker officials to respond more quickly to potential issues, enhance safety efforts, support a connected environment, and use data insights to help inform future updates of the trail system.    “We’re proud to partner with the City of Tucker to help create a more connected and responsive environment for city residents and employees,” said Mike Slovin, Vice President and General Manager of Comcast Smart Solutions. “By integrating connectivity, monitoring, and AI-powered analytics into their existing lighting infrastructure, we’re providing an efficient and cost-effective way to help the city enhance their safety protocols and improve the overall experience in public spaces.” Enhancing infrastructure and public spaces This smart park initiative aligns with the city’s broader goals to improve infrastructure The City of Tucker, incorporated in 2016, has consistently focused on balancing small-town character with forward-thinking growth. This smart park initiative aligns with the city’s broader goals to improve infrastructure, modernise public spaces, and enhance the quality of life for residents. “Integrating smart technology into our public spaces and trails is a key step forward,” said Micah Seibel, Assistant to the City Manager. “It allows us to deliver reliable connectivity to our community and better monitor usage in a way that’s scalable, efficient, and simple to manage.” Need for connectivity and innovation "The Southeast is home to a diverse range of communities and businesses, each with its own unique needs for connectivity and innovation,” said Mike Thibodeaux, Vice President of Business Services for Comcast Business. “Our partnership with the City of Tucker demonstrates our commitment to providing customised smart technology solutions that help enhance public safety and promote growth, digital access, and innovation throughout the region.”

Comcast Smart Solutions, a division of Comcast Corporation that specialises in smart technologies for businesses and communities, announced its selection by Triumph Development to introduce innovative solutions for their new community, Timber Ridge Village, located in Vail, Colorado. Comcast Smart Solutions will help Timber Ridge implement state-of-the-art smart cameras and AI-powered video analytics across the upcoming seven-building community. Integrated with a cloud-managed VMS The multifamily community will utilise AI-driven video analytics from Eagle Eye Networks More than 80 smart video cameras are anticipated to be installed throughout the new Timber Ridge Village Neighbourhood Condos. The multifamily community will utilise AI-driven video analytics from Eagle Eye Networks, integrated with a remote cloud-managed Video Management System (VMS) that offers camera monitoring, smart search technology, and the capability for automated activity alerts. This system will enable property staff to monitor the premises live and receive instant activity alerts. Integrate advanced video analytics solutions Additionally, the VMS will provide access to up to 30 days of recorded video, equipped with smart search capabilities that allow for the identification of certain objects in footage that, along with the video analytics, can enable enhanced responses. “Comcast Smart Solutions is built to deliver an all-in smart solution for a luxury, state-of-the-art property like Timber Ridge. This project exemplifies how our connectivity and smart technology ecosystem can help multifamily properties integrate advanced video analytics solutions while delivering an efficient and centralised operational experience,” Mike Slovin, Vice President and General Manager of Comcast Smart Solutions. Comcast Smart Solutions for the luxury condos Triumph Development set Comcast Smart Solutions for the luxury condos, seeking a tech-savvy partner Timber Ridge Village is a new, 304-unit multifamily community that broke ground in Fall of 2024, with plans to welcome residents in time for the 2025/2026 winter ski season. Developed as a public-private partnership with the Town of Vail, Colorado, it will feature studio, one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom units, along with car-sharing services and luxury amenities, including a rooftop deck and community room. Triumph Development selected Comcast Smart Solutions for the luxury condos, seeking a tech-savvy partner with expertise in high-quality smart technology, reliable connectivity, and a one-stop-shop experience to help streamline the end-to-end process. Smart cameras and AI-powered analytics “Being able to monitor our community is paramount, and with the help of Comcast Smart Solutions, we’re implementing an advanced, easy-to-use camera system that helps us better serve our residents." "The combination of smart cameras and AI-powered analytics, along with Comcast’s connectivity, training, and ongoing support will enable us to deploy a sophisticated system to enhance security protocols and bring peace of mind to our residents,” Coleman Wise, Construction Representative with Triumph Development. Comcast’s business-grade network Timber Ridge will also leverage Xfinity Communities' Managed WiFi to power Comcast Smart Solutions’ smart cameras and video analytics, while also providing a quick solution for residents to seamlessly connect to high-speed, reliable internet. With this integration, Timber Ridge hopes to set a new standard for its multifamily property management. Through professionally installed WiFi access points, the whole property is powered via Comcast’s business-grade network. Residents, staff and guests will have a reliable network, fast connectivity, and coverage for every unit, common area and device.

Comcast Smart Solutions, a division of Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ: CMCSA) that specialises in smart technologies for businesses and communities, announced that it will provide the Youth Crisis Centre (YCC) with smart video camera technology with AI analytics capabilities to help strengthen safety protocols and provide monitoring across its facilities. Founded in 1974, the Youth Crisis Centre is a pioneering facility and nonprofit in Jacksonville, Florida. YCC has remained dedicated to its mission of supporting youth and families impacted by traumatic situations, including divorce, homelessness, relocation, loss of life, bullying, and abuse by providing short-term crisis care, counselling, and residential services. Offering a safe environment to support young people and their families is central to YCC’s mission. Smart camera and analytics solutions Offering a safe environment to support young people and their families is central to YCC’s mission “We are honoured to provide our smart camera and analytics solutions to the Youth Crisis Centre. This organisation has made an incredible impact on the Jacksonville community by supporting its residents when they need it the most,” said Jeff Buzzelli, Regional Senior Vice President of Comcast Florida. “Our team is committed to delivering impeccable service that helps YCC create a stable space for patients to heal and give employees peace of mind.” AI-driven video analytics Eighty-two smart video cameras from Eagle Eye Networks will help to enhance security objectives across YCC’s five-building campus by delivering real-time alerts, AI-driven video analytics, entry and exit monitoring, and intuitive smart search for easier object detection. The system, powered by Comcast connectivity, includes a centralised Video Management System (VMS) with a remote dashboard and Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) technology. Additionally, staff can access up to 30 days of recorded footage for improved monitoring and response times. Video information and real-time insights Video information and real-time insights will help YCC better understand resident and employee Collectively, these tools help offer YCC a comprehensive view of its property through its self-monitoring system. Video information and real-time insights will help YCC better understand resident and employee patterns and strengthen security protocols. With campus-wide self-monitoring and smart technology solutions, YCC is better equipped to support staff and families while delivering high-quality care. Reliable and advanced platform “The safety and well-being of our families are our top priorities, as we are continually working towards providing a secure environment that supports recovery during their time here,” said Peter Hicks, Chief Development Office at the Youth Crisis Centre.  “Our facilities previously relied on an analog system, but with Comcast Smart Solutions, we have a reliable and advanced platform that allows us to more effectively monitor our campus and take a more comprehensive approach to enhancing security. This helps our staff focus on providing the best care possible to the youth and families we serve.”

An attention-grabbing exhibit at GSX 2024 in Orlando involved a robot dog that could open a door.  Boston Dynamics robot dog ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the robotics demonstration, featuring the Boston Dynamics robot dog that could open a door using either an HID credential or a mechanical grip. This innovation represents a shift toward more autonomous security solutions and is suitable for environments where human access may be limited. ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the Boston Dynamics robot dog Operational efficiency Eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology It was one of many eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology, and offering practical solutions to the industry's challenges.  For security professionals, the advancements presented opportunities to enhance operational efficiency and to maintain a proactive stance in a rapidly evolving market.  Control ID face identification Alongside their robot demonstration, ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification.  Access Controller, providing advanced facial recognition access control. From identity management to AI-driven surveillance systems, GSX 2024 offered a glimpse into the tools that can streamline processes, increase security, and reduce costs. Here are some other highlights. ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification More integration with critical infrastructure  A major theme at GSX 2024 was the increasing integration of security solutions with critical infrastructure. ALCEA (formerly ASSA ABLOY Critical Infrastructure) is an example. Their globalised software solution ALWIN is designed for managing access control, visitor management, and other security factors across multiple locations. ALCEA's approach involves not only internal collaborations within ASSA ABLOY but also partnerships with external organisations. An example of innovation is the Neenah Foundry lockable manhole cover, blending safety and security. Solving identity management challenges  The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies Identity management continues to be a key focus in the security sector, and AMAG Technology addresses this need with its Symmetry Connect product. The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies. For professionals overseeing identity access management, Symmetry Connect provides a streamlined, automated approach, reducing human error and increasing operational efficiency. AMAG also sees a growing demand for efficient visitor management systems, especially in the post-COVID landscape. AMAG’s products cater to the need for enhanced security without overburdening staff.  AI and cloud-based surveillance solutions  Axis Communications highlighted its advancements in AI and cloud-based video management systems with its AXIS Camera Station Edge and Pro products. These solutions can connect seamlessly to cloud systems, providing security professionals with easy access to surveillance data anywhere. With the increasing need for centralised management, Axis’s offerings ensure that security teams can efficiently manage surveillance with minimal infrastructure. Axis also showcased its commitment to AI-driven analytics based on superior video quality. There were also networked audio solutions for public announcements and background music, among other uses. Body-worn cameras for corporate and healthcare uses  Traditionally focused on law enforcement, Axon is now expanding its body-worn cameras and TASER technology into corporate, retail and healthcare environments. Their Axon Body Workforce camera is a practical solution for protecting frontline workers in high-risk environments.  Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness, a significant benefit for large campuses or remote locations. As more industries adopt corporate surveillance systems, Axon’s offerings provide flexible, scalable solutions that address the need for real-time, actionable intelligence.  Cloud-based access for smart buildings  Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options Brivo showcased how cloud technology is revolutionising access control by offering systems that integrate seamlessly with other smart building platforms. Their open API approach enables collaboration with IT teams, bridging the gap between physical security and IT management. Brivo’s new partnership with Comcast Smart Solutions illustrates how large enterprises can implement advanced solutions, including access control while maintaining flexibility. For professionals managing complex building environments, Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options.  AI-powered multi-sensor camera  Hanwha focused on an AI-powered multi-sensor camera, equipped with an NVIDIA processor capable of running complex analytics. In addition, Hanwha’s new AI camera technology can process multiple video streams simultaneously, either stream from its sensors or outside cameras, enabling better tracking of objects in complex environments. Their eight-channel AI Box, which converts legacy cameras into AI-enabled devices, is an attractive solution for professionals seeking to upgrade existing systems without the need for complete overhauls. For security teams looking to enhance situational awareness, Hanwha’s AI-based offerings provide advanced, scalable solutions.  Workflow management and hybrid cloud security  Genetec continued the theme of integrated solutions with their Operations Centre module for Security Centre, which consolidates work management into a single platform. Built on lean management principles, this system simplifies workflow for security professionals, promoting real-time collaboration across mobile and web platforms. As the industry shifts from on-premises systems to hybrid cloud solutions, Genetec’s products provide seamless transitions for organisations. Their new SaaS Security Centre also allows for natural language video searches in multiple languages, making it easier for global teams to manage operations across locations.  Simplifying remote surveillance  The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency is demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service Eagle Eye Networks showcased their continued international expansion, highlighting a new data centre opening in Saudi Arabia and new hiring initiatives in Australia and Europe. Their “Eagle Eye Anywhere” solar-powered camera system exemplifies the move towards flexible, easy-to-install solutions that can be deployed in remote locations. Integrators benefit from simplified maintenance through remote management, reducing the need for on-site support and ensuring operational continuity. The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency, as demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service, reflects the broader industry’s shift toward managed security services.  Tailored solutions for commercial clients  Everon continues its transition away from its former identity as ADT Commercial. Claiming the status of a competitive commercial integrator, Everon is reinventing itself by offering customised billing and monitoring solutions for a range of industries. Their cloud-based business intelligence platform, which combines video surveillance with data analysis, is aimed at enhancing operational awareness by detecting anomalies such as OSHA violations or retail point-of-sale exceptions. With AI-driven dashboards, clients can customise their security solutions to meet specific needs, reflecting a growing demand for tailored, data-driven security applications.  Innovation through cloud and mobile LenelS2 is part of Honeywell, and they emphasised their investment in cloud and mobile solutions at GSX 2024. Their "Enterprise OnGuard Cloud" platform, launched in June 2024, is a testament to the growing demand for cloud-enabled access control systems. With the addition of NFC-enabled Blue Diamond credentials, LenelS2 is pushing towards smarter, more secure mobile access options. The strategic combination of Lenel’s solutions with Honeywell’s infrastructure offers users enhanced engineering capabilities and global reach. This reflects a broader market trend of integrating mobile devices into physical security protocols.  Bringing AI to everyday security LPR system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying security risks March Networks highlighted their new AI-driven smart search feature, designed to help security teams quickly detect operational anomalies in retail and financial environments. From identifying misplaced cash in quick-service restaurants (QSRs) to detecting "jackpotting" attacks on ATMs, their solution highlights the increasing importance of AI in enhancing both security and operational efficiency. Their Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying and responding to security risks in real-time, emphasising the practicality of AI in daily security operations.  Driving sustainability in security  Securitas showcased its commitment to sustainability, a growing concern for businesses across all industries. By providing CO2 data for clients and promoting digital tools like mobile credentials, Securitas is leading the charge in creating greener, more sustainable security solutions. Their focus on remote services and occupancy insights offers companies a way to reduce their environmental impact while enhancing security operations. The company’s alignment with science-based targets and circular economy practices signifies the increasing role sustainability will play in the security sector.  Future lies in integration  The GSX 2024 trade show revealed that the future of security lies in intelligent integration, AI-driven analytics, and cloud-based management systems. The innovations presented will help security professionals streamline their operations, enhance situational awareness, and future-proof their systems. As these technologies continue to evolve, professionals must stay informed about the latest advancements to maintain a competitive edge in the security marketplace. GSX was a great place to start. At the end of the day at GSX, it wasn’t just the robot dog that was opening doors …. to the future of security systems. {##Poll1727925373 - Of the important factors highlighted at GSX 2024, which do you consider most when adopting new security solutions?##}

The success of smart homes began with professional security providers offering bundled packages, focused mostly on security monitoring. However, due to the cost of professional contracts, consumers began to embrace the do-it-yourself (DIY) approach. Despite the challenges and opportunities that come with professional and DIY approaches, the momentum of smart home growth depends on these two approaches working symbiotically. Smart home systems In 2017, there were about 122 million smart home devices shipped globally, according to IHS Markit. The retail channel represented about 62 percent of all device shipments in 2017 and will represent about 70 percent in 2021. Despite the increased demand for professional installation, the “do-it-for-me” approach, most the volume remains with ad-hoc purchases. This includes a consumer video camera or a smart thermostat purchase from a retailer. Data capture form to appear here! When a consumer wants to add devices to an existing professionally installed system, they often will buy products from retail. Flexible service offerings and pricing are already taking shape across smart home offerings. DIY installed smart home systems such as Scout Alarm already offer no contract monitoring. Professional monitoring companies are already offering no contract pricing, and providers such as Comcast are looking to pilot programs for just video monitoring, bundled with Internet for a low monthly fee. Home automation system Connected smart locks can actually act as an extension of a smart hub or controller Options for financing are also going to become commonplace. Smart home equipment is expensive, even when attempting to outfit a modest size home (2,500 square feet). Immediate access to services is becoming more critical. This means consumers should be able to access on-demand service options directly from a mobile device to activate or deactivate professional monitoring. Lastly, pricing still needs to come down for many smart home devices, but there is a threshold. For example, the sale of wireless, connected smart locks (viewed by some consumers as DIY) can lead to opportunities for further home automation product sales and professional installations. Connected smart locks can actually act as an extension of a smart hub or controller. They can be used to communicate wirelessly with and control all the devices that make up a home automation system, including lighting, entertainment, thermostats, air, alarms, shades and more. Residential security According to a 2018 Residential Security Market Report prepared by Parks Associates, “More than 60% of installing dealers now report that DIY systems are biting into demand for their services.” But the rise in DIY is not entirely bad news for security and home automation installers and dealers. There are a number of ways to view this glass as half-full. For example, with their lower cost and perceived ease of installation, DIY products have broken down barriers for additional purchases. There are reasons for dealers and installers to be cheerful about the rise of DIY. For one thing, according to that same Residential Security Market Report from Parks Associates, residential security dealers are doing quite well. The report states, “In 2017, revenues were up an average 7.72% for security dealers.” Full-time monitoring DIY products have broken down barriers for additional purchase and installation of professionally installed systems What about installations? The report goes on to say, “For 2017, the average number of installs per dealer was 22 per month, compared to 17 per month in 2016.” So, revenues are up for security dealers, and at least part of the reason can be attributed to the fact that DIY products can raise overall awareness of and spur interest in other home automation and security products. With their lower cost and perceived ease of installation, DIY products have actually broken down barriers for the additional purchase, and installation, of complete, professionally installed systems. Instead of paying for monthly monitoring, homeowners can install a web cam, access from a smartphone or tablet and essentially do their own security monitoring. The downside of this approach is readily apparent. Without full-time monitoring, homeowners can easily miss the break-in or the aged parent who falls and can’t get up. Near-field communication Until they log on and take a look, there’s no central station to send medical aid or call the police. Connecting door locks and other devices to the Internet can also open a door to hackers, if the infrastructure isn’t properly protected. The areas of consumer electronics and security are closely intertwined. For example, Apple recently expanded near-field communication (NFC) support to include the NDEF (NFC Data Exchange Format), which will likely accelerate the adoption of smartphones for access control credentialing. In another recent development, Amazon acquired Blink, a home security camera startup that offers wireless home security systems. The acquisition aligns with Amazon’s effort to offer more home devices. A common theme among professional monitoring providers is that a homeowner who is aware of events happening in the home does not necessarily have a secure and protected household. Traditional security features For example, a Nest camera, a DIY product, notifies a consumer via smartphone about events in the home when it detects motion, but only when the notification is opened and identified will a consumer be able to act on the related event. Self-installable smart home devices may resonate with a segment of the market that want security but are unwilling to adopt professional monitoring; however, providers can leverage these devices to enhance traditional security features and communicate the value of professional monitoring. Missed part one of our smart home mini series? Read it here.

Small-timers with big ideas can always make their way into the industry In recent years, home automation technology has given birth to the “Smart Home” in which internet-enabled and controlled devices are bringing a new level of comfort to the standard house. From locking doors to setting the temperature to opening the blinds for a view of the sunset, technology is transforming the home into something reminiscent of the now-quaint 1960s sci-fi cartoon, The Jetsons. Of course, we’re still waiting for our jet packs and flying cars, but the house itself is doing far more of the work than anyone thought possible just a few years ago. Future of the home automation sector?  “We have seen a lot of consolidation over the last five to seven years, and a lot of it was because of the economy,” says Dave Pedigo, Senior Director of Learning & Emerging Technologies at the Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association. “As much as you see the potential for consolidation, I also see a lot of potential for startup companies that have the ability to make products and are innovative, serve a purpose and can change the industry.”  In an era of 3D printing, rapid prototyping and small companies powered by social media and crowd funding, small-timers with big ideas can always make their way into the industry, he adds.   “It’s put us into what I think is the next industrial revolution,” says Pedigo. “While a lot of this is going to very large companies, at the same time I wouldn’t discount small or startup companies that offer goods that are unique and useful.”  4K: Opportunities and challenges "It’s put us into what I think is the next industrial revolution. While a lot of this is going to very large companies, at the same time I wouldn’t discount small or startup companies that offer goods that are unique and useful", says Dave Pedigo of CEDIA “Right now it seems like 4K video distribution will be the next big trend,” says Brad Hintze, Director of Product Marketing for Control4. “4K is the next step in high-resolution video and in our opinion it will not be like 3D. 4K will have staying power. It is for this reason that we came to market with our own suite of 4K video distribution equipment for the Control4 Smart Home.” He believes content is the main driver, both in adoption and hardware design. Network providers like Comcast and Dish Network, all have their own roll-out plans for 4K channels and content, which will eventually bleed into consumer adoption.  “But from a hardware and automation perspective, it presents challenges because the industry standards for image display and copy protection are evolving rapidly,” explains Hintze. “Control4 recently released our fully HDCP 2.2 compliant 4K A/V Matrix switch products, which eliminates the black screen produced by playing copy-protected content from studios on non-compliant equipment. Being able to adapt to this wave is what will keep us ahead of the curve!”  Intelligent sensors for smart home  Industry experts predict that sensors in the home will reach a level of sophistication never considered in early versions of Smart Home. These devices will know when the house is empty and be able to shut off heating and cooling systems. Smart phone with geolocation will then tell it when the owner is on her way back so it can start adjusting the temperature to a comfortable level.   “There will be an app on a phone that shows that you’re going to be home in a few minutes,” says Rawlson O’Neil King, Communications Director of the Continental Automated Buildings Association. “Then the house unlocks when you are at the door. The garage opens after detecting you’re close to the house. You have lights that turn on and off at certain times by detecting your presence.”   Industry experts predict that sensors in the home will reach a level of sophistication never considered in early versions of Smart Home. These sensors will also end once and for all the question of “did I lock the door?” or “did I turn off the stove?” And, it won’t just be lights that turn on and off. Sensors in washing machines will know that clothes have been put inside and will start the cycle at a time when costs are at a lower level, he adds.   These sensors will also end once and for all the question of “did I lock the door?” or “did I turn off the stove?”   Home automation – a double edged sword  With the move towards home automation, the coming years will see a greater emphasis on security as more and more devices become accessible – and hackable – on the web.   As a security expert at the Federal Aviation Administration prior to joining Vivint as Chief Security Officer, Joe Albaugh saw attacks against critical infrastructure and industry.   “The underlying theme was they are computer connected, the data is online and accessible and many of the attacks and threats are exactly the same,” he notes.