5 Trends Security Pros Must Stay Ahead of to Remain Relevant

In today’s marketplace, technology changes so fast that only companies who can stay ahead of the trends will survive. Global demand for smart home technology is steadily rising with the industry estimated to be valued at US$130 billion by 2020, according to IHS Technology. Security companies should be taking advantage of this growth and tapping into smarter integrations, wireless connectivity, increased coverage and a more seamless user experience when it comes to DIY home security in order to remain competitive in the space. Here are five trends security companies must stay ahead of in order to stay relevant. 1. Higher definition Video Surveillance When it comes to video surveillance, the quest for clarity is paramount. In 2018, we will see video surveillance systems featuring ultra HD 4K resolution. More powerful zoomability with enhanced detail in picture quality will become the norm, making it easier to identify number plates and faces with greater accuracy. But picture quality alone isn’t going to halt crime rates in your neighborhood — this is where smarter software analytics like facial and voice recognition have a major role to play. Many consumers will be familiar with 4K from the world of televisions and audio-visual electronics. With a dramatic step up in resolution and more pixels, 4K cameras need to be supported with better storage. Sophisticated Cloud storage solutions will ensure that your footage is available on demand and securely captured without any lags. 2. Mobile connectivity Wireless security cameras and systems are set to evolve beyond their present-day limitations, and will come equipped with 4G SIM cards for faster and more reliable connectivity. Apps connected to these systems will have more features and controls to facilitate real-time monitoring, greater viewing capabilities from afar and faster loading speeds and alerts. 3. Better Detection Last year, we saw the widespread introduction of heat and motion sensing technology in DIY CCTV systems, with security cameras being able to make a clear distinction between a moving tree branch and a human. More reliable monitoring starts with being able to accurately identify and prevent potential threats before they happen. Heat and motion sensing technology will become more commonplace in 2018 with improvements in sensing accuracy that are linked to enhancements in video resolution. 4. Doorway security is buzzing In the US, smart doorway security is quickly gaining traction, achieving a year-on-year retail sales growth of 108% making it one of the fastest growing categories in all of consumer electronics, according to NPD Retail Scan data from 2017. This trend will continue to gain momentum with the expansion of WiFi-enabled door phones and doorbells that are wire-free and entirely rechargeable. 5. Wireless, connected life With consumers using a range of wireless and portable devices and apps on a day-to-day basis, it’s important for security to fit into their lives as seamlessly as possible. Expect to see more security devices shed unnecessary wiring and join today’s wireless world. Another key focus will be the integration of security cameras and systems with leading smart home technology such as Amazon Echo, Google Home, Google Chromecast and Android TV, directly feeding consumer appetite for convenience by enabling remote access of footage of their home via voice activation. For far too long, claims that installing home security systems is difficult has kept consumers exposed to security risks. As home security systems become easier to use with sharper clarity and analytics, and more convenient with wire-free products and smart home integrations, more consumers will finally begin experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing their home is protected. Dennis McTighe is an experienced consumer electronics sales and marketing veteran in multiple sales channels. McTighe spent a considerable amount of his sales career with Sony Electronics and then as VP of Sales for National Account at LG Electronics. Today, he is Vice President of the Americas Region for Swann Communications . Dennis holds a BFA from the University of Cincinnati and a MBA from Texas Christian University in Ft. Worth, Texas.

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