Video surveillance, specifically IP or networked cameras, continues to redefine physical security protection. Cameras are proactive sensors that can, with analytics and intelligence, provide early detection and notification in security breaches. Video can also be used in safety or business operations to monitor adherence to regulations or ensure product shelves are properly stocked and ready for the public.
Users are turning to video for its sharp images and adaptability to different environments and markets. They like the fact that it leverages the now-familiar cloud infrastructure, and, as such, can be accessed through their mobile devices. Remote video can be shared with live streamed images sent to management or first responders for greater situational awareness and safety. It’s the type of experience that has users wanting more—and video continues to deliver.
Predictive A.I. intelligence
Security video has morphed into a multipurpose tool that goes beyond detecting intruders with visual evidence. Networked IP cameras with artificial intelligence and analytics alert about intruders, objects left behind or other anomalies that may indicate a threat and assist in supply chain tracking and automated tasks.
These cameras can provide marketing insights into customer behaviors. License plate recognition, for example, can enhance customer-forward operations with dwell times and other metadata. Today’s analytics can identify specific characteristics such as hair color, clothing or even the presence of facial hair. Deep learning lets users custom-tailor detection to fit current or future needs.
The days of watching hundreds of cameras—impossible and ineffective—are over. Refined detection parameters and analytics reduce false alarms while adapting to the environment, warning of real, verified threats, and even escalating automated responses. With these capabilities, remote video monitoring (RVM) has emerged as a leading trend.
The days of watching hundreds of cameras—impossible and ineffective—are over
RVM, fostered by fast network connectivity and A.I. that filters and processes real alarms more accurately, is a top 2025 trend in the physical security industry, according to the “2025 Trends in Video Surveillance” report from Eagle Eye Networks, Austin, Texas. Other leading influences include the use of cameras in more places, increasing coverage with multisensor cameras, gun detection, low-light capabilities and A.I.
“Wireless networking, smaller cameras, solar power and long-lasting batteries are making it easier to put cameras practically anywhere. This trend is also driven by smaller, specialized cameras for more mobile devices, including drones and body cameras worn by police, technicians and delivery drivers,” according to the report.
Of course, the cloud
Now that IP video can be managed in the cloud, there are new possibilities. But because long-term storage and retention of cloud-based video can become expensive, edge A.I. cameras are emerging strongly, as they enable users to identify important video and store feeds on SD cards in the camera. Onboard computing resources help systems integrators to manage them more effectively.
However, customers will experience trade-offs with A.I. in cameras.
“When a security update, bug fix or routine software update is required, each camera needs to be accessed and upgraded. Various camera brands, too, may require different ways to use their A.I. features and a subscription to make those features work. Even so, onboard A.I. in cameras will likely have a dramatic effect on the world of video surveillance, in the same way software improvements have changed the landscape of mobile phones,” according to the Eagle Eye Networks report.
A.I. is a tool to streamline security, focus on threat detection and automate tasks, said 42% of end-users adopting the technology, according to the “State of Physical Security 2025” study by Genetec, Montreal. Genetec’s report also revealed that 43% of users are moving to hybrid video cloud deployments, blending on-premises servers and cloud infrastructure, with users noting surveillance and access control projects as their priorities for 2025.
Video sells on value
When systems integrators understand the far-reaching impact of cameras—and how they can be leveraged to solve challenges at the protected premises above and beyond security—the value of the installation increases for the customer and makes for an easier sales proposition. That’s important since users can now openly investigate product pricing, sometimes using this as their sole criteria for security purchases and contractor engagement.
Even better, video integrates with all kinds of sensors, access control, gunshot detection and other devices so integrators will be closer to delivering a full solution the customer can’t turn down. Technology is progressing; don’t get left behind. Discover the power and might of intelligent video.
