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Milestone Systems is pleased to announce the acquisition of brighter AI, effective April 1, 2025. The Berlin-based technology company, brighter AI, provides anonymisation solutions for video data based on state-of-the-art deep learning technology to protect people’s identities in public. The advances of artificial intelligence raise concerns around data privacy across the world. One of the biggest challenges in developing AI solutions is finding and accessing sufficient data that can be used. Essential for AI technologies There are no AI models to train, which are vital for existing AI technologies, such as ChatGPT Without data, there are no AI models to train, which are essential for existing AI technologies such as ChatGPT and Copilot. This challenge is particularly significant in video data, where it is even more difficult to find data that does not contain sensitive personal information. The solution lies within regulatory-compliant data and this is exactly what brighter AI’s anonymisation technology brings. New opportunities with anonymisation capabilities The acquisition of brighter AI also opens up a range of new opportunities with anonymisation capabilities and privacy enhancement, which protects data and enables full data privacy. The addition of brighter AI significantly strengthens Milestone’s offerings for video management software, video surveillance as a service and video analytics and fuels the company’s ongoing growth journey in and beyond security. Additionally, brighter AI’s anonymisation technology serves as a cornerstone of the recently announced data library and AI model training tool Project Hafnia. Strengthening European competitiveness Combining two European tech pioneers with a focus on taking a responsible approach to AI development The privacy-by-design tool developed by brighter AI further solidifies Milestone’s position as a pioneering Responsible Technology company. Combining two European tech pioneers with a focus on taking a responsible approach to AI development will be a significant contribution to making Europe the pioneer in the global AI and tech landscape. It is a testament to European innovation and strengthens the continent’s competitiveness whilst protecting individual citizen’s privacy. Anonymisation tool for video technology “brighter AI is a perfect match for Milestone. Their proven technology is top-notch and will give us a wider offering to existing and future technology partners and customers. The anonymisation tool for video technology will also enhance our focus on responsible technology." "Even more important, our two company cultures are highly compatible. Having known brighter AI for a while, as we have an established collaboration on Project Hafnia, I have complete faith that this will be a great benefit for all. I am indeed very pleased to welcome our new colleagues to Milestone,” says Thomas Jensen. Anonymisation solution for video data based on AI Founded in 2017 by Marian and Patrick Kern, brighter AI serves companies across various sectors and is the pioneering anonymisation solution for video data based on artificial intelligence.  For the solution Deep Natural Anonymisation, which automatically detects a personal identifier such as a face and generates a synthetic replacement, brighter AI was named “Europe’s Hottest AI Startup” by Nvidia. Future of visual AI brighter AI serves across various sectors and is the anonymisation key for video data “brighter AI was founded with the mission to make visual data usable in a privacy-preserving way. Joining Milestone Systems marks an exciting new chapter—together, we can scale that mission to a global level out of Europe. Milestone’s leadership in responsible video technology and their vision with Project Hafnia align perfectly with our own values." "We’re proud that our anonymisation solutions will become a core pillar of a platform that’s set to redefine how compliant, high-quality video data is used to train AI. We’re ready to shape the future of visual AI—secure, ethical, and transformative,” Marian Gläser says. Focus on responsible AI development Milestone Systems is acquiring brighter AI and are thereby significantly contributing to strengthening European competition power and innovation. Europe must be pioneering in setting the right standards for global responsible technology. By combining two European tech pioneers with a dedicated focus on responsible AI development, Milestone contributes to making Europe a pioneer in the global AI and tech landscape. brighter AI employs 24 people. who will continue their great work as part of a separate business area within Milestone.

Lanner Electronics, a pioneer in edge AI computing solutions, is proud to announce the launch of the EAI-I510 Edge AI Computer, designed to enhance city safety through AI-powered video analytics. Featuring the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra Series 2 (Arrow Lake H) processors, the EAI-I510 is engineered to support advanced video analytics applications such as intrusion detection, facial recognition, and law enforcement assistance for first responders. Real-time AI inference EAI-I510 enables smart surveillance and security monitoring with improved accuracy Built to meet the growing demand for real-time AI inference at the edge, the EAI-I510 enables smart surveillance and security monitoring with improved accuracy and efficiency. The EAI-I510 redefines high-performance computing with next-generation Intel® Core™ Ultra Processors (Series 2), delivering exceptional processing power and optimized energy efficiency for seamless data handling and ultra-responsive performance. AI-driven edge applications Equipped with built-in Intel® ARC™ graphics, XMX GPU, and an integrated NPU, the Intel Core Ultra Processor achieves 2.5x the AI performance of its predecessors, reaching up to 99 total platform TOPS of AI processing power.  This advanced architecture accelerates real-time AI analytics while maintaining outstanding power efficiency, making it an ideal solution for AI-driven edge applications. EAI-I510 features EAI-I510 features two 2.5GbE RJ45 and two 10GbE RJ45 ports for high-speed networking For I/O connectivity, the EAI-I510 features two 2.5GbE RJ45 and two 10GbE RJ45 ports for high-speed networking. It also includes two COM ports, four USB ports, two DisplayPort 1.2 outputs, and four DIO ports, providing versatile interface options for various deployment needs. The system also supports expansion capabilities with up to 96GB DDR5 6400 MHz Memory, one PCIe x8 slot, one M.2 2230 E-Key slot for WiFi 6/6E, one M.2 3042/3052 B-Key slot for LTE/5G, and two Nano-SIM slots, ensuring robust wireless communication options. Intel’s latest Core Ultra Series 2 processors “The launch of EAI-I510 marks a significant milestone in AI-driven security solutions, empowering law enforcement agencies and first responders with real-time intelligence,” said Spencer Chou, Senior Director of Edge AI Product Division at Lanner. “By leveraging Intel’s latest Core Ultra Series 2 processors, we are enabling enhanced AI-powered video analytics for intrusion detection and facial recognition with low-latency AI inference at the edge, all while maintaining energy efficiency”. Latest in AI-driven security technology Lanner will debut the EAI-I510 at ISC West 2025, taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada, from April 9-11, 2025. Visitors can explore the latest in AI-driven security technology at booth #33068, where Lanner will also showcase its all-new Edge AI computers powered by NVIDIA AGX Orin for high-performance video analytics applications.

The Security Industry Association (SIA) has announced the 2025 winners of the SIA New Products and Solutions (NPS) Awards, the flagship awards program presented in partnership with ISC West, recognising innovative security products, services, and solutions. Top among the winners, who were recognised April 2 during an award ceremony at the Bridge Stage on the ISC West show floor, was Vaidio, receiving the 2025 Best New Product Award. SIA NPS product and service categories SIA NPS has been the security industry’s premier product awards program Since its inception in 1979, SIA NPS has been the security industry’s premier product awards program. New products are reviewed by a panel of judges with extensive industry experience, and in 2025, following significant deliberations, the 38 judges presented awards for technologies covering 33 product and service categories.  The 2025 SIA NPS Awards entries will be on display through Friday, April 4, in Booth #25075 on the ISC West show floor, adjacent to the Bridge Stage (Booth #25059). Vaidio 9.0 advanced models Vaidio received the Best New Product honor for its Vaidio 9.0 AI Vision Platform product, submitted in the Loss Prevention and Article Surveillance Solutions category. “Vaidio 9.0 enhances loss prevention by combining advanced (artificial intelligence) models, heuristic rules and intelligent compute management to deliver precise analytics for detecting theft and reducing inventory shrinkage,” said Vaidio. “Its unique orchestration of CNN, transformer and VLM models increases accuracy, reduces compute consumption and improves speed, while integrating seamlessly with existing infrastructure.” AI-driven engagement The prestigious Judges’ Choice Award was presented to RAD for the SARA The prestigious Judges’ Choice Award was presented to Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD) for the SARA – AI Security Agent for Autonomous Threat Detection and Response product, submitted in the Threat Detection and Response Solutions category. “SARA revolutionises (global security operations centers) and monitoring by transforming passive surveillance into real-time, AI-driven engagement,” said RAD. “This autonomous security agent detects threats, interacts with individuals, verifies intent and escalates incidents as needed, enhancing security efficiency, reducing operator fatigue, preventing overlooked events and ensuring faster, smarter and more effective incident response across diverse environments.” Amazing new products and solutions “This year’s SIA NPS program has had another fantastic year with amazing new products and solutions presented to our judging panels,” said Christine Bergeron, chair of the SIA NPS Awards Committee and senior director of global physical security technology at Visa. “Thank you to our expert judges and committee members for your dedication to the program and lending your expertise and valuable time to contribute to a successful 2025 SIA NPS program.” Advancement of SIA and the security CyberLock received the NPS Merit Award, which admits an person or company who, through their support of SIA “The SIA NPS Awards are a renowned global platform for highlighting new offerings each year, and earning recognition is an impressive accomplishment,” said Elisa Mula, vice chair of the SIA NPS Awards Committee and founder and protection management specialist at EM Designs. “SIA applauds this year’s winners, who impressed our judges after an extensive process of tech demonstrations and panel-driven judging.” Additionally, CyberLock received the NPS Merit Award, which recognises an individual or company who, through their support of the SIA NPS Awards, demonstrates a commitment to the vision and mission of the program, contributes to its success and promotes the advancement of SIA and the security industry overall. New security technology solutions “SIA congratulates all the winners of the 2025 SIA NPS Awards, and especially Vaidio and Robotic Assistance Devices, whose products stood out among the entries to earn the Best New Product and Judges’ Choice distinctions, as well as SIA NPS Merit Award winner CyberLock,” said SIA CEO Don Erickson. “Each year, NPS presents the most cutting-edge products available on the market today, and our judges’ dedication, support and thorough consideration are invaluable in maintaining it as the most trusted awards program for launching new security technology solutions.” 2025 SIA NPS award winners  Best new product award Winner: Vaidio – Vaidio 9.0 AI Vision Platform Judges’ choice award Winner: Robotic Assistance Devices – SARA – AI Security Agent for Autonomous Threat Detection and Response SIA NPS Merit award Winner: CyberLock Category awards Access Control Devices & Peripherals Hardware – Wireless Winner: Sure-Fi – Sure-Fi Access Pro Bridge Access Control Software, Hardware, Devices & Peripherals – Wired Winner: Safetrust – IoT Neural Sensor Honorable Mention: Accessia – Accessia Reader Antiterrorism/Force Protection/Armed Aggressor Winner: Xonar Technology – TruePort Biometrics Winner: Intel RealSense + Ones Technology – BioAffix Gate Vision Powered by Ones Technology and Intel RealSense ID F450 Communications and Networking Solutions Winner: Commend Americas – Ivy Live Translation – Ivy Virtual Assistant’s Multilingual Real-Time Translation Capabilities, Part of Commend’s Symphony Cloud Solution for Security Communication Convergence and Integration Solutions Winner: AURA – AURA Auto Guard Dispatch Data and Systems Cybersecurity Winner: SWEAR – SWEAR Security Design, Diagnostic and Installation Tools Winner: dormakaba – EntriWorX Insights Enhanced Project Delivery Winner: Vaidio – Vaidio 9.0 Environmental Monitoring Systems Winner: XSponse – X-Shield Honorable Mention: Secure Passage – Truman Fire/Life Safety Winner: Honeywell – Connected Life Safety Services (CLSS) Compliance Manager With Auto-Pass Honorable Mention: Honeywell – CLSS Cloud-Connected Horizon Identification Management and Credentialing (Nonbiometric) Winner: Wavelynx, rf IDEAS and Idemia (Founding Companies of LEAF Community) – LEAF Community Intrusion Detection and Prevention Solutions (Physical) – Wired or Wireless Winner: SPOT AI – SPOT AI Remote Security Agent Honorable Mention: Hexagon – HxGN dC3 LidarVision Key/Equipment Assets Management Solutions Winner: CyberLock – ValidiKey Pro Law Enforcement/Public Safety/Guarding Systems Winner: 3Si Security Systems – DirectToDispatch Honorable Mention: Eagle Eye Networks – Eagle Eye 911 Camera Sharing Lock and Key Solutions Winner: dormakaba – CenconX OTC Safe Lock Honorable Mention: Securitech ASSA ABLOY – PARAMAXX Loss Prevention and Article Surveillance Solutions Winner: Vaidio – Vaidio 9.0 AI Vision Platform Managed Services Winner: ADRM – DEFENDER Honorable Mention: Allied Universal – Unified Command Center Mobile Solutions Winner: Intel RealSense + Ones Technology – BioAffix Vision Mobile Powered by Intel RealSense ID 450 Threat/Risk Management Software Applications Winner: Bearing – Bearing Honorable Mention: Sign In Solutions – Sign In Solutions – Risk Insights Threat Detection and Response Solutions Winner: Robotic Assistance Devices – SARA – AI Security Agent for Autonomous Threat Detection and Response Honorable Mention: Xtract One Technologies – Xtract One Gateway Video Analytics Winner: Lumana – Lumana Video Intelligence Platform Video Surveillance Advanced Imaging Technologies Winner: Axis Communications – ARTPEC-9 Video Surveillance Cameras Winner: Hanwha Vision America – 4CH AI Multi-Sensor Camera With WAVE VMS Powered by the NVIDIA Jetson Platform Honorable Mention: Axis Communications – AXIS Q1809-LE Bullet Camera Video Surveillance Hardware and Accessories Winner: Spectrum Camera Solutions – F200 Series Explosion-Proof Housing System Video Surveillance Management Systems Winner: Monitor Computer Systems – Sentinel

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 basic need for public safety is one of the biggest forces driving the adoption of smart city solutions: approaches that seek to solve urban challenges through technological means. The thinking behind these initiatives is that with enough internet connectivity and real-time data, surely environmental, social, economic, and public health issues should become more manageable. However, just adding more technology is not the whole answer. Although technology is necessary for an urban area to transition in to a safe and smart city, technology alone isn’t sufficient. Truly smart cities are savvy cities and that includes how they employ software, sensing, communications and other technologies to meet their needs. Cities need solutions that help find what you need and convert the ‘too much information’ into ‘actionable intelligence’ Some of those initiatives, however, like red light cameras or computerised flight passenger screening systems, have amounted to little more than ‘security theater’, which might waste limited resources and further delay the smart city transition due to over-hyped solutions and unrealistic projected return on investment. In other words, technology doesn’t necessarily result in more safety. But does this mean we are also more likely to quickly find what we need? Cities need solutions that help find what you need (e.g. a missing child or a suspect) and convert the ‘too much information’ into ‘actionable intelligence’. Data capture form to appear here! Better connectivity promotes safety There is a growing shift towards younger generations wanting to live in the city where they have access to public transportation, restaurants and entertainment. They also expect to live in a safer environment, and this is where the smart city approach comes into play with the introduction of WiFi in parks and public spaces, along with surveillance systems. These two solutions and services can now sit on the same network, thanks to better connectivity options and interference free solutions, such as mmWave wireless radios. Younger generations expect to live in a safer environment, and this is where the smart city approach comes into play with the introduction of WiFi in parks and public spaces, along with surveillance systems For example, Siklu Inc., a provider of mmWave wireless solutions, announces Smart City deployments based on Siklu’s broad E-band and V-band product portfolio previously reached, and now have likely surpassed, a milestone of 100 cities installed. Smart Cities, which were initially defined as municipalities connecting low data rate sensors for water, gas and more, have been evolving to demand high-capacity connectivity at gigabit-per-second speed. This high-bandwidth network infrastructure is needed to support new applications such as video security, public Wi-Fi backhaul, and private city network deployments. Linking AI and smart cities Dubai is an example of how artificial intelligence and smart city projects have become intrinsically linked. Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, authorities in Dubai have set out to “make Dubai the happiest city on Earth” by adopting cutting-edge smart city initiatives. Dubai Police has launched a range of public safety initiatives including Smart Police iOS apps, traffic accident and location systems, and SOS apps for wearable devices. Dubai Police shows how artificial intelligence can power new Robocop prototypes – unarmed, life-sized patrolling robots carrying facial recognition software and automatic license plate recognition (ALPR). Authorities in Dubai have set out to “make Dubai the happiest city on Earth” by adopting cutting-edge smart city initiatives NVIDIA’s Metropolis™ intelligent video analytics platform is paving the way for the creation of AI cities. Metropolis Deep Learning makes cities safer and smarter by applying deep learning to video streams for applications such as public safety, traffic management and resource optimisation. More than 50 NVIDIA AI city partner companies are already providing products and applications that use deep learning on GPUs. “Deep learning is enabling powerful intelligent video analytics that turn anonymised video into real-time valuable insights, enhancing safety and improving lives,” said Deepu Talla, vice president and general manager of the Tegra business at NVIDIA. “The NVIDIA Metropolis platform enables customers to put AI behind every video stream to create smarter cities.” Smarter access control in cities Advanced software suites can provide access to all operations performed by users A smart city is one that uses information and communication technologies to increase operational efficiency, share information with the public and improve both the quality of government services and resident welfare. Smart access control is an important step forward in providing technologically advanced security management and access solutions to support the ambitions of smart cities and their respectively smart industries. With high volumes of people entering and exiting different areas of the city, it is important to be able to trace who has been where, when and for how long. Advanced software suites can provide access to all operations performed by users, including a complete audit trail. This information is often used by business owners or managers for audits, improvements or compliance. Read parts two and three of our Smart Cities miniseries.

Effective access control can be achieved without the use of cards using a new generation of secure facial authentication enabled by artificial intelligence and machine learning. Alcatraz AI is introducing a system that deploys a sensing device, about the size of a badge reader, with multiple colour and infrared cameras that can detect facial features and confirm an identity. Real-time 3D facial mapping avoids anyone using a photograph, video or mask to spoof the system and confirms there is a real person that matches the stored facial image. System helps in tailgating mitigation Deep neural networks, powered by NVIDIA, enable the system to achieve new levels of frictionless access control, says Vince Gaydarzhiev, CEO of Alcatraz AI. Computer processing is achieved at the edge to ensure speedy and secure access control. We saw an opportunity to create a system that solves issues of tailgating and addresses the need for security without increasing friction"“We saw an opportunity to create a system that solves issues of tailgating and addresses the need for security without increasing friction,” says Gaydarzhiev. The accuracy of the system lessens the need for security guards, he says. The Silicon Valley startup, currently with 20 employees, was founded in early 2016 by a team from Apple, NVIDIA and Lily Robotics with a goal of targeting mid- to large-sized corporations that currently have deployed badging systems. The company has raised close to $6M from venture capital firms and individuals, and Johnson Controls/Tyco has invested in the startup. Alcatraz AI’s sensor device, mounted near a door, confirms a user’s identity and communicates the user’s badge number to the existing access control infrastructure. “The system improves the facial profile every time, using the neural network to be even more accurate in the future,” says Gaydarzhiev. He says it is the industry’s first “instant one-factor authentication for multi-person in-the-flow sensing.” The system is less expensive than previous facial authentication systems and does not require users to be very close to the reader Easy enrolment and deployment Enrolment in the system is easy. Companies can deploy a separate enrolment station, or any reader can be used for enrolment. After badging in a couple of times, the face matching system “enrols” the face with the associated badge number, thus allowing the user to dispense with the badge altogether. In the future, the frictionless system simply recognises the user and opens the door. A user company can quickly deploy the system at locations where thousands of employees have access, without requiring employees to go to HR for enrolment. Gaydarzhiev says accuracy of the system is no less than that of iris scanning, and the accuracy is configurable for specific needs. He says the system is less expensive than previous facial authentication systems and does not require users to be very close to the reader. Facial authentication is also more flexible than iris scanning or fingerprinting. Detecting intent from positioning of eyes The system detects intent from the positioning of the eyes and body to avoid opening a door unintentionallyIn contrast to near field communication (NFC) or Bluetooth systems, the technology does not require a compatible smart phone or have issues of communication range. There is no need for users to stop and perform an action or gesture to signal intent. The system detects intent from the positioning of the eyes and body to avoid opening a door unintentionally, says Gaydarzhiev.  Alcatraz AI is targeting high-tech enterprises, including healthcare, government and eventually banks. Currently they have three pilot installations among large global software companies and are undergoing trials with some government agencies. Today, they sell direct to end users, but the intent is to develop a dealer channel that will account for most of the sales.